Fernando Alonso

This season may not be make or break for Fernando Alonso’s long-term future in F1 given his multi-year deal with McLaren extending beyond the end of 2018, yet it should set the tone for how the closing years of his time in the sport will play out.

Following three years of trials and tribulations with Honda, McLaren embarks on a new era with Renault engines in 2018, with the hype being built considerably over the winter. There is now nowhere for the team to hide. It has to deliver.

Pre-season testing was a mixed bag for the team and Alonso, who lost yet more time on-track to recurring reliability issues. It wasn’t the statement that McLaren wanted to send out ahead of a crucial season.

Alonso will get his desire of fighting for a world championship this year - but not in F1. His FIA World Endurance Championship programme with Toyota will afford him two shots at winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans, furthering his triple crown bid. While a fight for a third F1 title is not realistic this year, the Spaniard will at least want some signs from McLaren that it may be possible down the line.

The pressure is on for McLaren and Alonso in 2018. If it finishes as the worst of the Renault-powered teams, it would be a big disappointment and not bode well for the future. Alonso’s biggest long-term ambition may have shifted towards winning the ‘triple crown’, but he will want 2018 to at least offer some hope that a third F1 championship remains within reach before his time in the sport is over.