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Alonso still the best driver on the grid - Boullier

McLaren-Honda's racing director Eric Boullier says that in his view, Fernando Alonso still remains the best driver on Formula 1's current grid.

Alonso had endured a dismal time at McLaren ever since his departure from Ferrari at the end of 2014. The Woking outfit's partnership with Honda has failed to bear any fruit up to now, although tangible signs of improvement are now clear.

But many believe the team's victory drought and relative lack of competitiveness have taken their toll on the great Spaniard's motivation and will to race at the pinnacle of racing. An assertion which Boullier vehemently disagrees with.

I don't think Alonso is ready to retire, I am sure that if he believes in the McLaren Honda project he will end up being champion," Boullier said in an interview with Spanish media AS.

"I see progress, we are moving forward. McLaren is prepared, and as soon as we have the full package, chassis, engine etc... we will be ready to move upwards. I'm sure. And I hope that will be with Fernando, of course."

Despite the winless streak and the perceived frustrations on the part of his driver, Boullier has no doubts that the Asturian remains at the top of his game.

"Without a doubt. Definitely. I respect Fernando, he is a competitive driver, he is a very intelligent driver, and he is good from the practice runs through until Sunday. That is the reason why he is the best. He is definitely a leader.

"Never mind the past ten years without winning a title, he is one of the greats. To win now, you need to have the best car, the best team and be the best driver, and if you do not have that, it won't work.

"Lewis Hamilton is winning now, but if Alonso had the car that we are working on ready now, he we would be winning too. Without a doubt."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.