Alonso's thumbs are insured for £9million

FERNANDO Alonso has given the thumbs up to a new deal that means his digits are now insured to the tune of almost £9 million.

The special comprehensive coverage is part of a life and accident package arranged by one of Ferrari's primary sponsors, banking giant Santander.

A spokesperson said: "Alonso's thumbs are a big symbol as, apart from being essential when driving a Formula 1 car, they represent a sign of victory and that everything is under control and well protected."

Alonso has signed a new one-year deal with Santander that now see the Spaniard sponsored by the insurance arm of the company, as well as the banking division.

With less than a fortnight to go ahead of Alonso's home grand prix in Barcelona on 9 May, it is a race the 28-year-old feels will separate the men from the boys in the world title fight.

After the first four races of the season Alonso currently finds himself in joint-third place in the drivers' standings alongside McLaren's Lewis Hamilton.

The former team-mates are 11 points adrift of championship leader Jenson Button and a point down on Mercedes' Nico Rosberg.

After three grands prix in Australia, Malaysia and China dominated by inclement weather, Alonso feels Spain's sunnier climes will offer a more defined picture on the title race.

"The championship always starts with the first race, but it's just a race to confirm the good sensations you had during testing," said Alonso. "The first races can be atypical, with changing weather all the time, but in Europe it is the moment of truth to show who is going to fight for the title and who isn't.

"It is also time for the teams to prove they can develop faster than their rivals. It's the start of a nice fight."

Alonso said he was not worried about his Ferrari engine after suffering a failure in Friday practice at the last race in China. "I'm sure we will have a great car in Barcelona and I am not worried," he added.