• Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Alonso welcomes Hamilton to challenge for win

ESPNF1 Staff
November 13, 2010 « Qantas renews Australian GP sponsorship deal | »
Lewis Hamilton was the fastest man in Friday practice © Getty Images
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Fernando Alonso is not concerned about Lewis Hamilton topping the free practice timesheets in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

If the McLaren stays out front at Yas Marina this weekend, the Ferrari driver's points lead over the chasing Red Bulls is potentially more secure.

"Anyone who can take 25 points away from the Red Bulls is welcome," Alonso said.

Michael Schumacher sees Hamilton - who in order to win the title must win on Sunday with the other main contenders out of the running - as a potential spoiler, and urged the Briton to play fair.

"Everyone is focused, experienced and professional enough to handle the situation with an absolutely fair racing spirit," he said. When asked about Hamilton's pace, the seven time world champion added: "I was talking about him when I spoke about making sure it was fair sport."

Triple world champion Sir Jackie Stewart rejected Schumacher's opinion.

"I find that a strange thing for Michael to say," said the Scot. "I am completely behind Lewis in charging in there."

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