Alonso defends decision to join McLaren

The two-time champion moved to the Woking-based squad after four seasons racing for Renault, who struggled for pace during 2007.

This year Alonso scored four victories and fought for the title until the final race, but announced last week that he was leaving McLaren after his relationship with the team deteriorated badly.

Despite that, Alonso reckons McLaren's performance throughout the year justifies his move.

"This year I had the opportunity to win the championship again, so from that point of view the switch (from Renault) was a good decision," Alonso told the official Formula One website.

"The team did a fantastic job to have a competitive car so I was able to fight until the last race and finished only one point behind the champion. So in that respect I think it has been a very positive season.

"Outside the car for sure we had some ups and downs, better moments and worse moments, but I think this happens in every job.

"I will remember this year for my four victories I had in important places, where I had not won before, like Monza, and Monaco again for a second time."

The Spaniard believes he can look back at the season with pride, but has vowed to learn from this year's lessons.

"Hopefully for next year I've learnt some lessons and I'll try again," Alonso added. "For every driver, when we lose a championship we start thinking about why we lost. But we lost, so there is nothing more we can do. It's history.

"The future is the place where you can change things - and the future already has begun. Looking back over my shoulder I feel quite comfortable."