Pleased Alonso urges Renault to push

The Spaniard, who had qualified in 12th position, went on to finish in fourth position, but only after several drivers in front of him hit trouble.

Alonso reckons the result was an important boost for the team, but he is aware that Renault need to find more speed to fight closer to the top.

"That was a very strange race with lots of overtaking, incidents and mechanical problems for lots of drivers," said Alonso.

"We were able to make the most of the opportunities that came our way today and finished the first Grand Prix with a good result, which will give the team a boost and give us confidence for the rest of the season.

"However, we must continue working to improve our level of performance in qualifying and our pace in the race, but the result today is very important for us."

Teammate Nelsinho Piquet completed a poor debut weekend by retiring from the race after 31 laps.

The Brazilian was involved in the first lap mayhem and his car was damaged as a consequence.

"I made a good start and I was able to make up some places during the first lap, which was pretty hectic," he said. "Unfortunately I was hit at the start, which damaged my car and so I did not manage to reach the end of my first Grand Prix.

"Of course, I am disappointed, but I learned a lot this weekend and I cannot wait to go to Malaysia to continue my apprenticeship and hopefully get a better result. I already know the Sepang circuit, so it should be easier."