McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh says he is 'happy' with the continued progress of future driver Fernando Alonso﷽ and that the Spaniard is already a better driver than when he signed for the team back in December.

Alonso announced prior to🎐 Christmas that the current season would be his final one with the Renault team before he moves to McLaren with the defꦇending champion having made a strong start to the defence of his title.

Currently leading the championship by 23 points, Alonso has claimed victory in fiv൲e of the eight races held so far and is comfo🦋rtably ahead of both McLaren drivers - a display that left Whitmarsh with mixed emotions.

"We have mixed feelings about how well Fernando is driving at the moment," he told the BBC. "He was never one for making a lot of mistakes, but his performance this year has been quite incredible. It may not feel pleasant now but we are hoping it will fee🌌l pleasant this time next year.

"I think Fernando is a bet✤ter driver now compared to when we signed him and we are very happy with the progress he has made. His consistency is astounding and he has grown in stature."