Fernando Alonso has admitted that his decision to leave Ferrari after five seasons was a "very difficult" one to make.
The Spaniard quit the Italian constructor and is expected to be announced as one of McLaren's drivers for next season, although racing director Eric Boullier refused to be drawn on their lineup.
While Alonso conceded that it was a tough choice, he explained that the decision was made to help his chances of winning races and Formula 1 titles.
He is quoted by Autosport as saying: "It is very difficult to close the door on Ferrari knowing that I will not work in this red colour next year.
"That's a very, very difficult decision to make, but I guess that was the same for Felipe [Massa] last year - after a long relationship saying bye-bye to the team.
"But I miss being on the podium, I miss to celebrate with champagne, I miss to celebrate winning races, winning titles, and I think a new project for me will bring that possibility closer."
Alonso will be replaced at Ferrari by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel for 2015.
