Renault have issued a hands-off warning to Ferrari over rising young star Fernando Alonso.
The Spaniard, who became Formula One's youngest-ever winner in Hungary in August, has been linked with a move to Ferrari, potentially as Michael Schumacher's replacement in 2005.
Alonso has impressed many with his form this season as he has out-performed highly-rated team-mate Jarno Trulli.
He is managed by Renault boss Flavio Briatore and the French team moved today to insist Alonso is contracted to them in the long term.
A Renault statement read: "In order to put an end to speculation which appeared in the international press following the US Grand Prix the Renault F1 team would like to confirm that Fernando Alonso is under a long-term contract to the team which includes the 2005 season."
PA