Alonso says own 2015 performance has been subpar

McLaren-Honda’s Fernando Alonso feels he has not been driving extremely well in 2015, and adds “I need to improve for next year”.

The Spaniard left Ferrari and returned to Woking last winter hoping to get his hands on the third world title he has been coveting for nearly a decade. Alonso immediately found himself on the back foot though when a bizarre accident in pre-season testing forced him to sit out the opening round in Melbourne.

The 34-year-old was back in action in Malaysia and has since endured a heart-wrenching campaign, as Honda has struggled with the current turbocharged power unit technology. But Alonso, who is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the field if not the most complete, admits he too could have fared better.

“I don’t think so,” replied the double world champion (2005/06) when asked if he felt he had delivered any standout races in 2015.

“I think I did some good laps here and there and I remember Japan, in Q2, the lap was on the limit and good. The Austin race, the whole race was good in wet and dry conditions, then I felt comfortable with the car and able to push.

“But apart from these two moments, I don’t think I have had the best season and I need to improve for next year. When you are running at the front and you have more motivation that helps of course, but I am on standby, let’s say, economy mode in order to have full energy next year.”

• McLaren-Honda expects ‘long, hard winter’ – Button

Despite venting his frustration on a couple of occasions, Alonso has generally put a brave face on McLaren-Honda’s difficult reunion. The ex-Ferrari star confesses he would be surprised and saddened to live an equally challenging season in 2016, but claims he is ready to wait another year should the problems persist.

“Definitely it would be a frustrating year and sad news because we have high hopes for next year. I really trust the team and really believe we have the talented people and the resources to do well.

“If we go to testing and we have a bad car, first it will be a surprise for me, it will be a disappointment for me, but I don’t there will be any problem. It will be another year of learning and preparing for 2017.

“Aerodynamically we have understood the direction to go and the car is improving. I can see when we are on the track how we are able to attack the corner and how fast we are in the corners, so I am not afraid that next year’s car will not be at the top level.”

Alonso's contract with McLaren-Honda runs through the end of 2017.

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