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McLaren driver Fernando Alonso to retire from Formula 1

McLaren driver Fernando Alonso will retire from Formula 1 at the end of the season.

McLaren has announced that Fernando Alonso will leave the team at the end of the season, with the Spaniard opting to retire from Formula 1.

Alonso won back-to-back world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006, but the legendary Spaniard has failed to register a top-10 finish in the drivers' standings in his last three years with McLaren.

The veteran has also shown an interest in driving away from Formula 1 - winning Le Mans earlier this year - and that is one of the reasons why the 37-year-old has opted for a new challenge.

Alonso is quoted by the team's official website as saying: "After 17 wonderful years in this amazing sport, it's time for me to make a change and move on. I have enjoyed every single minute of those incredible seasons and I cannot thank enough the people who have contributed to make them all so special.

"There are still several grands prix to go this season, and I will take part in them with more commitment and passion than ever. Let's see what the future brings; new exciting challenges are around the corner. I'm having one of the happiest times ever in my life but I need to go on exploring new adventures.

"I made this decision some months ago and it was a firm one. Nevertheless, I would like to sincerely thank Chase Carey and Liberty Media for the efforts made to change my mind and everyone who has contacted me during this time."

Alonso has won a total of 32 grands prix and recorded 97 podiums during an illustrious 303-race career.

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