Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso has admitted that it was difficult to cope with the emotions of his final race for Ferrari in the season's title showdown in Abu Dhabi.
The Spaniard, who is leaving the team after five years, said that the start of the race was particularly hard. He admitted that it was the worst moment, adding that they fired up the engine and the mechanics stayed there with the tyre blankets to the last minute.
An emotional Alonso said that two guys stood at the front, and he saw that they were looking at him, their eyes shining. He added that it was difficult to put first gear and start, The BBC reported.
Alonso is to join McLaren next season, although his move has not yet been announced by the team or the driver himself.
King Juan Carlos of Spain, who is close to Alonso, claimed that the two-time champion had told him he had signed for McLaren.
However, Alonso said in light of the King's claim after the Abu Dhabi race that what the king says, he doesn't say anything opposite. He added that Carlos is the king and he is always right.
Alonso added that it is terribly difficult to close the door with Ferrari and knowing that he would not wear this red colour next year.
When discussing his exit, Alonso recalled Felipe Massa's departure from Ferrari in 2013, after seven years, to join Williams. He said that it is still a very difficult decision to make but added that it was the same for Felipe last year, after a long relationship, saying bye.
But, Alonso admitted that now he is second in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and he is ninth and he misses being on the podium, winning races and titles.
Alonso said that he believes the new project would bring that possibility closer. He said that maybe not in one year time but he added that he has no doubts he would fight again.
Alonso finished second in the championship to Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel in 2010, 2012 and 2013, but has just endured the team's worst season in 20 years with an uncompetitive car, which he has managed to drive to a podium finish only twice, the report added.
