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Alonso remains upbeat on title hopes

Fernando Alonso endured a miserable Belgian Grand Prix © Getty Images

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Fernando Alonso is still upbeat about his championship chances despite a disappointing Belgian Grand Prix weekend that saw him t-boned by Rubens Barrichello before crashing out late in the race.

With Sebastian Vettel and Jenson Button also failing to collect points, Alonso acknowledges that there are now three drivers who need to make up ground in the remaining races.

"The first final went badly, but there are still six to go," said Alonso on his Ferrari blog. "Going into these seven races, I had said that whoever did the best job in them would take the title: clearly, there are now three of us who need to make up for ground lost in Spa. With this points system and the way races swing one way or another, I am convinced we still have a significant chance. There are 150 points up for grabs, enough to turn the situation around. We must remain calm and concentrate, to try and make up the difference as soon as possible."

The Italian Grand Prix will be the first for Alonso as a Ferrari driver and despite the importance of the race in terms of the championship, he is looking forward to the unique support of the passionate Tifosi.

"Racing at Monza for the first time as a Ferrari driver will definitely be a nice feeling. Our team is made up of 95% Italians and you can feel the passion and the will to do well for this special event. I can't wait to be there and look forward to seeing the grandstands packed with fans: we need their support.

"There is no denying that the Monza race will be very important. At our home circuit we will have to do everything to avoid losing any more points: a good result here would be a great boost. If things go badly, it won't be over but it would be a hard knock for team morale."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.