By Karl King
February 14 2006

Reigning world champion Fernando Alonso will leave Renault for McLaren in 2007. This news comes just days after Mclaren sign telecommunications giant Vodafone for 2007, ending their deal with Ferrari.

“To become part of a team with such a desire to succeed and passion for performance is a dream come true for any Formula 1 driver,” said Alonso.

“I’m very excited about 2007 and the fantastic opportunity to drive for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes.

“It will be a new beginning for me and a tremendous challenge and from what I have heard about this exciting new partnership there is something to look forward to.”

Alonso explained his shock move by saying the opportunity to join McLaren was one he couldn't afford to turn down. “Obviously I will be sad to leave Renault but sometimes possibilities come along which are just too good to miss,” the Spaniard said.

“I’m pleased that we are able to make this announcement already now as it will allow my current team and I to focus 100 per cent on defending the world championships next year.”

McLaren team boss Ron Dennis added: “It’s great that our strong belief in the strength and competitiveness of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes package has been further endorsed by the world champion.

“We always make it clear that we want to be the best and the only way of achieving this objective is by attracting the best people, the best drivers and the best sponsors.

“To be able to announce Vodafone as only McLaren’s third title partner in more than 30 years and Fernando’s employment within only a few days is fantastic news for the team, our partners, Formula 1 and the fans.”

Both McLaren’s current drivers, Kimi Raikkonen and Juan Pablo Montoya, have their contracts up for renewal at the end of 2006. Raikkonen has previously been linked with a switch to Ferrari, but Dennis claimed no decision has yet been made about who will partner Alonso.

“We are in discussions with our current drivers Kimi Raikkonen and Juan Pablo Montoya regarding the 2007 season,” he said.

“Both Juan Pablo and Kimi are extremely talented, professional and competitive Formula 1 drivers and they have and will continue to concentrate on our joint challenge for the championships.”