Vandoorne positive about teaming up with Alonso

Stoffel Vandoorne is itching to get his 2017 season started, where he will partner double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso in the McLaren team but instead of being intimidated by the Spaniard he relishes the opportunity.

Vandoorne told ESPN, "I think it's something positive for me to race alongside Fernando. Everyone obviously knows his qualities, he's a double world champion and a lot of people see him as one of the toughest drivers to beat.

"I think it's positive for me to come in and be his team-mate. Obviously we'll try to beat each other, that's normal because we're racing drivers. But as well we have to make sure we push the team forward for next year.

"We're making big progress now and hopefully next year we can make another big step," added Vandoorne who next season replaces Jenson Button, the Briton taking up an ambassadorial role for the team.