'Alonso not quitting F1 anytime soon,' says physio

Fernando Alonso is not currently contemplating a retirement from F1 at the end of the 2017 season, says his long-time physio.

Fabrizio Borra is one the men closest to the 35-year-old, and despite the two-time world champion's warnings that he could call it a day if McLaren-Honda's fortunes don't turn up in 2017, his physio doesn't believe that will happen.

"I do not see a Fernando who thinks this may be his last season in Formula 1? Borra  told Spanish radio Cadena Cope.

"He is working very hard, as he did in his early years. I see him very calm and motivated."

• Alonso disagrees with Brown on 'no wins' call

Even McLaren executive Zak Brown has poured cold water on the prospect of McLaren returning to the winner's circle this year, while Alonso is keeping his hopes up, which is what any dedicated professional would do.

"We always get to the first test convinced that the year will be positive," Borra added.

"The mental focus is the same as when fighting for the title. He is training for about six hours a day.

"For the younger drivers, the physical preparation changes a lot, but not so much for the veterans. Fernando has a plan similar to the one he has done since he made his debut.

"The cars he started with were physically more demanding even than we will see in 2017, even if the speed in corners this year will require more from the drivers than we have seen in recent seasons," he said.

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