Alonso claims McLaren are sabotaging his car

Fernando Alonso has allegedly briefed Spanish reporters that McLaren are deliberately sabotaging his car.

While it is public knowledge that Alonso feels aggrieved at the team's refusal to install him as their number one driver, the Spaniard hasn't gone so far as to claim that teammate and World Championship leader Lewis Hamilton has received preferential treatment.

However, in a deeply unpleasant exchange during Friday's press conference, Alonso pointedly refused to denounce the allegation.

Asked specifically whether 'you think you have been treated in a fair way by the team or could maybe the team favor Lewis by making subtle changes to your car, like tire pressures or wing settings?', Alonso merely replied: "Difficult question… I will not answer."

According to Times correspondent Edward Gorman, present at the press conference, Alonso 'paused for emphasis' and 'gave the clear impression that he believes the team are doctoring his race car to ensure that Hamilton wins the title.'

'No one who heard him could be in any doubt what his intended meaning was and indeed Spanish journalists close to Alonso said he has been saying as much privately for some time.'

[Editor's Note: Recall the days of active suspensions in 1993 when Michael Andretti also drove for McLaren. Given the way his car mysteriously behaved (what code was in those suspension computer programs on his car?), and given all the roadblocks thrown in his way (that one year FIA limited practice and qualifying laps to 7, McLaren never allowing him to test before the season started, etc.) one has to wonder what goes on there with the boys in Woking. Perhaps Alonso's allegations are correct.]