Alonso still upbeat about title chances

The 25-year-old world champion has seen his advantage over Michael Schumacher trimmed to just 10 points with five races remaining, after he crashed out while leading at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The pace of his Renault in Hungary, however, left Alonso upbeat about his chances of returning to winning ways after Schumacher had won the three races before the Hungarian Grand Prix.

"I'm feeling very positive," said Alonso. "I am in the position where everybody wants to be - leading the championship, with the races counting down. There was some pressure on us after Germany, but the race in Hungary showed that the R26 is still very competitive, and that you have to take every weekend one at a time.

"Turkey will be a new race with its own challenges, but I am feeling confident. This type of circuit suits our car, and Michelin will bring good tyres. So we need to concentrate on our job, put the package together and make no mistakes. Then let's see what the race brings."

Teammate Giancarlo Fisichella, who also retired from the Hungarian race, is equally confident for the Turkish Grand Prix and for the remaining part of the championship.

"Hungary was really disappointing for me," said the Italian. "Normally, wet conditions like those are ones that really suit my driving style but the grip of the car was just not good in the race. After that, it was good to have a break and I have spent lots of time on my boat with my family.

"Now, I am really motivated for the last races of the championship. Renault wants to have a strong weekend and steal back the initiative in the championship battle. We have the package to do it, I think, so we are looking forward to racing aggressively, and hopefully finishing on the podium."