Alonso labels British Grand Prix as best qualifying performance in 2018

Fernando Alonso has labelled today's qualifying session as his best so far in 2018. Despite not achieving his best result, the Spaniard claimed the downforce and power demands of the Silverstone circuit, which usually go against the McLaren, were weathered well.

The Woking-based team have been put through the wringer this month climaxing with Eric Boullier's departure on Wednesday. After the first important session with the reshuffle, Alonso was positive about his performance.

"[We were] beyond the limit. I think today was without a doubt the best qualifying of the year, and the best weekend overall," Alonso told Spanish TV.

Team-mate Stoffel Vandoorne failed to make it out of Q3, finishing 2nd last out of those that set times. He will start from 17th tomorrow. And even-though Alonso is pleased with his own performance he knows the team still have a lot to work on as they head towards the summer break.

In terms of personnel, the McLaren team have already had a number of updates. Andrea Stella has been appointed as performance director. Gil de Ferran has come in as sporting director. Alonso isn't at all downbeat about their first qualifying session together, and perhaps it's this refresh the team need.