Video and pictures: Fernando Alonso is excited by the McLaren MCL33

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Two-time Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso is delighted with McLaren’s new MCL33 car but admits he’s also apprehensive ahead of the new season.

The McLaren MCL33 was launched today and features a striking papaya orange and blue colour scheme inspired by the team’s first F1 colours from 50 years ago. The MCL33 also has a new Renault engine and halo.

Speaking at the launch, McLaren driver Alonso said: “My winter has felt somewhat shorter than usual as I’ve already been in the cockpit for a 24-hour race and several sports car tests. That said, I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car for the first time in three months.

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“Looking at our new car, I feel incredibly excited – but also apprehensive. I know just how important this car is to the team and I just hope that it delivers in the way we all want it to.

“If we’re able to develop the key strengths of last year’s chassis and marry it to an improved Renault power unit, then I think we’ll be able to take a step forward. The car certainly looks very neat and well thought out, and I think the new colour looks really great – really eye-catching.”

Alonso and team-mate Stoffel Vandoorne will take the MCL33 for eight days of pre-season testing starting on Monday at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona.

In pictures: McLaren MCL33