Alonso looks to Spain after Nuerburgring defeat
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-05-08 14:16
NUERBURGRING, Germany, May 7 - World champion Fernando Alonso looked
forward to winning his home Spanish Grand Prix next weekend after two defeats in
a row to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher.
"I think we need to improve a little bit in all areas in the car and I think
Barcelona will be a good point, because we have always been quick there in
testing," the Renault driver said after finishing second in Sunday's European
Grand Prix.
"(Tyre partner) Michelin has been in a dominant position in Barcelona over
the last two years, so I'm really looking forward to winning that one."
Seven times world champion Schumacher has enjoyed 'home' advantage for the
past two races.
The first was a defensive battle in the San Marino Grand Prix at Imola's Enzo
and Dino Ferrari circuit and the second at the closest track to his boyhood home
in Kerpen, near Cologne, where he has now won five times.
Even without the army of red-shirted fans and immense local support,
Schumacher would still have been too strong and Renault recognised that they had
been beaten fair and square.
"We were fighting against rivals who were just a bit faster," said team boss
Flavio Briatore.
"Fernando didn't put a foot wrong today...we have to admit, though, that the
combination of Bridgestone (tyres) and Ferrari was too strong for us today --
and in those conditions, finishing second is like winning.
"Congratulations to Ferrari, but we hope to be fighting for the victory again
in Barcelona."
Alonso could be content with his day, despite seeing his lead over Schumacher
reduced to 13 points after finishing on the podium for the 11th race in a row
and starting from pole position.
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