Briatore: Alonso more motivated now

The Spanish driver has returned to the French squad after a season with the McLaren-Mercedes team, with whom he parted company two years ahead of the end of his contract after a troubled 2007.

Alonso won back-to-back titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, but the team endured a disappointing 2007, finishing on the podium only once on their way to third place in the constructors' championship.

Both Alonso and Renault will be hoping to lift their spirits this year, and Briatore believes the Spaniard is already showing signs of being more motivated than before.

"Alonso always makes a difference, both with his performances and motivating the team," Briatore was quoted as telling reporters at Valencia by AS newspaper.

"He is happy, we are the same, nothing has changed since he left and he has improved a lot. Professionally, as a driver, everywhere. One more year of experience is very useful.

"I see him very motivated, even more than in 2006. That helps a lot, both him and the team."

Alonso left McLaren after his relationship with the team and rookie teammate Lewis Hamilton deteriorated throughout the year.

The double champion will be partnered by another rookie, Brazilian Nelsinho Piquet, in 2008, but Briatore is confident there will be no repeat of the situation McLaren lived last year.

"That's impossible," he added. "At first sight they are two excellent drivers. Piquet is getting the chance to be in an important team, with a great driver beside him. Nelsinho is a young and intelligent boy.

"He knows what he wants and for him having Alonso as teammate is a great opportunity. He'll take advantage of that. And I'm different from Ron Dennis."