/world sport
JEREZ, Spain -- Fernando Alonso was back behind the wheel of a Renault for the first time since returning to the team after a turbulent year with McLaren as he tested at Jerez on Tuesday.
Alonso was in familiar territory as he test drove for Renault at Jerez.
The Spaniard won back to back titles with the French manufacturer before claiming a disappointing third in last year's championship behind Kimi Raikkonen and McLaren teammate Lewis Hamilton.
On the second day of a three-day test at the Spanish circuit, the 26-year-old even sported a new helmet design to go with the new era, but had to drive the 2007 Renault because the new car will not be launched until January 31.
"There were a lot of good feelings meeting up with the team again today, good memories and plenty of optimism," said Alonso.
"There are new colors for me, a new helmet that I designed for the new season - the only thing we are missing is the new car!"
Alonso was optimistic for the new season and joining forces with new teammate Nelson Piquet Jnr.
"The team is completely different to the one I left in 2006," he said.
"There have been some big changes, they have improved a lot of things and strengthened many areas, so in one sense it is a new adventure with a new team.
Unlike last year when Hamilton and Alonso were treated equally by McLaren, a stance that enraged the Spaniard, he will be number one driver with Renault.
"I said last year that too many false things were written, but I understand that is what sells newspapers," insisted Alonso.
"I haven't really got to know Nelsinho yet, but he seems to me to be a normal, nice guy who wants to enjoy his time in Formula One." E-mail to a friend 
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