Alonso is in charge at Ferrari - Hamilton

Fernando Alonso is among the best in formula one but his situation at Ferrari is unique.

That is the view of Lewis Hamilton, who clashed memorably with Alonso as they were teammates at McLaren in 2007 as the pair reportedly tussled for elusive ’number 1’ status.

Alonso decided to leave the British team and is now at Ferrari, where he has just signed a new five-year extension to his existing contract.

Asked by Spain’s El Pais newspaper who he regards as the best in F1, Briton Hamilton answered: "We all believe we are the best and that’s what you have to do, unless you like to finish second.”

"(The best) are Alonso, Vettel and Rosberg, who I’ve known since I was 13. He (Rosberg) is about to burst through and he will at any time.”

"Sebastian is in a great period with Red Bull and has a lot of confidence.”

"Fernando is very talented and is fully supported by his team," continued Hamilton. "The whole (Ferrari) team supports and follows him. It is he who leads Ferrari.”

"I’m not saying it’s good or bad, it’s just the route they have chosen," he added.