Webber: Alonso ‘the best in the world’

Editor

Mark Webber has praised Fernando Alonso for still managing to shine in an uncompetitive McLaren team, while declaring Lewis Hamilton the best qualifier since Ayrton Senna.

The Aussie has bemoaned the fact that McLaren-Honda are not challenging at the right end of the grid, but believes Alonso's "stock is still incredible" after getting every last drop out of the MCL32 this season.

"It's been a big shame for Formula 1, a big shame for Honda, a big shame for McLaren," Webber said.

"They loaded their guns up and got Fernando back there waiting for the engine to fire, but it hasn't happened.

"He's been biting his tongue for the last 24 months, and he can't drive the thing any harder. His stock is still incredible, and on Sundays he's probably the best in the world. That's the frustrating bit."

Webber also praised title rivals Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel for their performances this year, before highlighting Hamilton's "very special" talent on Saturdays.

"Both Hamitlon and [Sebastian Vettel] have driven awesome this year, and Lewis particularly in qualifying has been very strong," Webber added.

"He's the best since Senna over one lap – he's very special on Saturdays."