Fernando Alonso 'lost for words' after sensational European Grand Prix victory for Ferrari

The Spaniard had ruled out finishing on the podium in Valencia after qualifying in 11th position on Saturday.

But Alonso charged back into contention from the start of the race, pulling off some bold moves to eventually reach second place at the restart following a safety car period.

The Ferrari driver took the lead of the race when Sebastian Vettel retired and he became the first man to win two races in 2012.

An emotional Alonso found it hard to describe his feelings.

"It's really difficult to express in words what is the feeling at the moment," said Alonso, who moved back into the championship lead.

"Winning the home grand prix is something unique, a very special feeling. I had the opportunity in Barcelona in 2006 with Renault and I still remember that moment perfectly.

"But now I had opportunity with Ferrari, with the grandstands full of red colours. I'm feeling very proud, and winning this race in Spain is probably the best victory I ever felt in terms of emotions. Nothing can compare to this one."

He added: "It is an amazing feeling. I still remember Barcelona 2006 and now six years after the win probably I will have better and better memories of today with time. Right now it's too many things with my feelings and too many things to give to all the team and all the fans."

Alonso, who had previously won the Malaysian Grand Prix, said he never expected such a strong result after a disappointing qualifying.

"After qualifying yesterday you never think you can get a good result or fight for the podium or something like that," Alonso said.

"When you find yourself third after the safety car I said hopefully there is the chequered flag now and I enjoy this podium celebration, but two laps later I overtook [Romain] Grosjean on the restart, then Vettel stopped and it was a very long race from that point.

"You enjoy this moment so much, but it's difficult to describe in words what I am feeling."

With Vettel and McLaren's Lewis Hamilton retiring from the race, Alonso now leads the championship by 20 points from Mark Webber.