Alonso says Ferrari career could stretch into 2017

Fernando Alonso has admitted he could stay at Ferrari beyond his 36th birthday.

The former double world champion, in his third year with the Italian marque and leading the world championship, is currently under contract until the end of the 2016 season.

"It’s too early to think about 2017," the Spaniard is quoted as saying by the EFE news agency.

"I cannot know what my feelings will be then or if I’ll be similarly motivated.

"If I am hungry and I have to race, I love doing it and - if I do - it will be with Ferrari, that’s for sure," said the 31-year-old.

"If I feel it is time to stop and lead a different life, that is a decision that I can only make at that precise time," added Alonso.

Alonso debuted for Minardi in 2011 and has also driven for Renault and McLaren.