Fittipaldi Tips Alonso for Title

58-year old Fittipaldi, World Champion in 1972 and 1974, clinched the first of his two titles at the age of 25 and 274 days, becoming the youngest ever driver to take the crown.

Alonso, currently leading this year's standings, will turn 24 next July.

"It's been 33 year since I got the record, and it's lasting a long time," Fittipaldi told Spanish daily Marca in an interview.

"There have been some amazing young talents in Formula One over the last three decades and they haven't stolen my record. Neither Senna, or Prost, or Piquet managed it, and I thought Michael Schumacher would do it, but it wasn't the case.

"It's true that Alonso is in a good position to beat the record. He's doing very well and has a big advantage, and I think he's going to beat my record."

The Brazilian World Champion, however, believes Alonso will not have it easy.

"[Kimi] Raikkonen is very strong and Schumacher will bounce back," he added. "Alonso is the main favourite but the fight will be close until the end."