Alonso is '200 percent' ready

Speaking at the launch of the R23 in Switzerland today (Monday), the Spaniard also reckons that he will benefit from the French manufacturer's decision to opt to take part in the new Friday morning test sessions.

"Having tested for a whole year with the team there is some advantage for me going into this new season," said Alonso. "It's a big team and you have to get used to it. I have got to know the people and the car perfectly. I am ready 200 percent.

"The decision to test for two hours on Friday mornings is good for me as there are some tracks I would like to spend some more time on and I think that's good for the team too."

Renault finished fourth in last year's constructors' championship. Alonso believes the team should improve on this performance this year, even though that would mean beating Ferrari, Williams or McLaren.

"We will only find out how good the car is after testing this week, but I am confident as the team has been working very hard. We were fourth last year and I think we should be better than that this year."