Analysis: Alonso aims for win on 100th GP

The 26-year-old Spaniard, who lags the Briton by seven points with six rounds remaining, returns to the race track after a controversial weekend in Hungary before the August break.

The two drivers were reportedly not on speaking terms when they left Budapest, with their championship-leading team fighting fires on all fronts.

McLaren, already battling title rivals Ferrari over spying allegations, were barred from scoring constructors' points while Alonso was stripped of pole position for impeding Hamilton in qualifying.

While Hamilton went on to win, Alonso finished fourth.

Even if efforts have been made to patch up the shattered partnership, with Hamilton since denying any war with Alonso and affirming their "professional working relationship", the gloves will be off in Istanbul.

Alonso is itching to reassert himself, with his hopes of a third successive title after two with Renault depending on him getting the better of his phenomenal rookie teammate.

"It is always great to have a break and recharge the batteries, but it is fantastic to be getting back out on track in Turkey," the Spaniard said in a team preview.

"I have a solid points total in the drivers' world championship and I am aiming to build on that considerably in Istanbul," he added.

"I have come second in the two years we have raced here previously and I will be aiming to improve on that this time."

Hamilton has similar expectations, finishing second at the circuit in the GP2 support series last year after working his way from the back of the field.

"It felt like a win and it would be great to get on the top step this year," he said. "Along with the team, I am very motivated right now."