Only new rules can stop Mercedes - Alonso

Aug.8 (GMM) Fernando Alonso has hailed the timing of F1's regulations change for 2017.

Some have questioned the radical aerodynamics, chassis and tyre changes that are coming next year, saying performance in F1 was just beginning to converge in the current 'power unit' era that began in 2014.

But Spaniard Alonso has made no secret that his love of driving in F1 has waned during that period.

"Next year I will take stock," he is quoted by Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

"The important thing is that I have fun again. 2017 will give the answers to my questions like are the cars as quick as they used to be? Do I have to keep saving tyres and fuel?"

Alonso also hopes that, with the new rules, McLaren-Honda will be the team that is poised to finally topple Mercedes' dominance.

But he admitted: "We need more power. Even if Honda had as much power as Mercedes, it would not be enough because Mercedes' overall package is excellent.

"That's why it is so important that F1 is getting a new set of regulations," said Alonso.

However, those who argued that F1 should stay the course, like Mercedes' Toto Wolff, have warned that the new rules could once again leave a single team out in front.

"That's the question mark," Alonso acknowledged, "but it also gives everybody hope. Otherwise Mercedes would have just kept managing their advantage."

The newly 35-year-old therefore has no regrets about having left Ferrari.

"It was time to go," said Alonso. "For me there was nothing more to do.

"I'm not gloating. Ferrari is a great team and I had a great time there. But for the future you need to have either a Mercedes or a McLaren-Honda," he added.