Briatore still Alonso's manager

World Champion Alonso stunned Formula One when he announced he would leave Renault at the end of 2006, when his current contract with the French squad expires. The move prompted speculation that Alonso would break free of his ties with Briatore.

But although Briatore was not aware of the talks between Alonso and McLaren prior to the announcement being made, Alonso has clarified that the flamboyant Italian and his FBB management company will continue looking after his career.

When asked at the Renault launch in Monaco whether Briatore would continue to be his manager, Alonso said: "Yes. Flavio will still be my manager."

Speaking about whether his relationship with Briatore had changed, despite the controversy of his move, Alonso said: "No. Not at all. It is even stronger now."

Briatore moved to clarify Alonso's remarks later on, however, claiming that he has not been personally involved in the management of Alonso while he has been running the Renault team.

He has left that up to Bruno Michel, who helps runs Briatore's Renault-backed FBB management company.

"At the moment I am in charge of Renault and I do not care about the management company," said Briatore. "Bruno Michel is dealing completely with the management company and I don't have any information. It's as simple as that.

"I don't need to clarify anything. Fernando signs a contract with this company and in this company I don't have any active part. I am like Silvio Berlusconi. I never discussed with Bruno Michel. I am the managing director with Renault and Renault know exactly what I am doing."