Fernando Alonso: 'Withdrawal is unthinkable'

Fernando Alonso has insisted that, although ultimate success in Formula 1 has eluded him for a decade, he has found "happiness" with the McLaren-Honda project.

Some see the Spaniard's situation vastly differently, after he left Ferrari amid apparent acrimony only to find a much less competitive alternative.

However, the 34-year-old scoffs at the retirement rumours.

"Never," he insisted to Cadena Ser radio when asked if he had even considered it.

"I never thought about retirement or a sabbatical. I do not think I am the most talented on the grid, but I think I am one who has worked the hardest to get the results in these 16 years. A withdrawal or a year out is unthinkable for my character."

He added: "Success is very temporary, [the goal] is to find happiness in what you do because that way you perform better and better. I have found that in recent years."

Alonso's best result since rejoining McLaren was a fifth-place finish in last year's Hungarian Grand Prix.