Alonso considers Vettel a great champion

Aug 31, 2011, 10:19 GMT

Berlin - Ferrari star Fernando Alonso considers current world champion Sebastian Vettel a great champion.

In an interview with the German Sport Bild magazine, the two-time world champions sang the young German's praises. 'Sebastian is a great champion, who is in the process of winning his second title.

'He has a lot of talent and the capability of withstanding pressure.'

Alonso, who won the world championship in 2005 and 2006 with Renault, said he did not think that anybody could seriously challenge Vettel, who has a 92-point lead from his Red Bull team-mate Mark Webber.

Alonso, who is third a further ten points behind, said that Vettel was the overwhelming favourite; 'I certainly would put my money on him.'

The Spaniard said he had no problems with Vettel, whose contract with Red Bull runs until 2014, joining Ferrari.

'A lot of drivers want to come to Ferrari. Sebastian would definitely be welcome.'

Alonso stressed though that he was very happy with his team-mate Felipe Massa. 'But one day, why not. If you have not driven for Ferrari, your career is not complete,' he said.

Read more about Alonso