Alonso: Start key to success

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The Spaniard pulled alongside pole position holder Felipe Massa as the drivers entered the first corner before going on to notch up his team's first win of the season after a barren 2006 season and the result was made all the sweeter as British newcomer Lewis Hamilton claimed second spot.

"Our only chance to do something in the race was to be first after the first corner so thanks to a very good start and to the car I was able to arrive side by side with Felipe into the first corner," said Alonso. "I managed to be first and to have my team mate in second helps, for sure, to open the gap."

The win was Alonso's first for McLaren in just two races since joining the team from Renault, and he was surprised the success had come so quickly.

"It's absolutely fantastic and a wonderful surprise what we have achieved in so short a time," he said. "I remember the first test in December, we only had one day and the launch of the car in Valencia.

"A lot of work has been done by the team, a lot of effort from everybody to be ready for the first race but we never expected to be so competitive. It's difficult to believe but congratulations to everybody."