Emerson Fittipaldi says McLaren are enjoying the fruits of the 'Alonso factor' in 2007.

Officials at Renault have consistently played down the effect that the double world champion's departure has had on the team's performance this year, but Fittipaldi - twice a title winner in the 70s - said the influence of a successful driver can be very important for a winning team.

"Every team has a very positive attitude when they pick up the best driver," the Brazilian told Diario As.

"It changes a lot. Fernando has shown for years his capacity to drive and develop his cars on a high level. He also brought a lot of privileged information (from Renault). He is doing at McLaren exactly what he did at Renault."

Fittipaldi, 60, also denied that Alonso needs to worry about the 'Lewis Hamilton factor' at McLaren, after the Spaniard complained in recent days about the support his rookie team-mate gets from the British squad.

"There is no danger for Fernando," he insisted. "All he needs to do is forget about everything except winning. Every country goes crazy if they have a driver who is doing good things.

"But inside the McLaren team the drivers are equal, because it is in their interest that they have two top drivers. I know Ron Dennis, and he wants to win, win and win, and that is all. And both the drivers have the possibility to achieve it."