Renault signed the Spanish driver as their test driver for next season, but Briatore was quoted saying on Thursday that he was looking forward to 2003.

"It is an investment for us and for him. It is important to save him, to allow him the time to prepare for 2003 in the right conditions," the Italian told French sports newspaper L'Equipe.

Briatore also said that he would have preferred to drop current driver Jenson Button, instead of Giancarlo Fisichella, for the 2002 season.

Renault, formerly Benetton, have Button and Italian Jarno Trulli signed for next season's campaign.

Button's deal is next year only - and Briatore said he would have retained Fisichella if he had had the choice.

"Personally, I would have liked to keep Fisichella, but we have to honour our contract with Button to the end," he said.

"He has acquired experience, he should blossom next year."

Alonso, 20, drove for Minardi in 2001, but had a long-term Renault contract which was exercised this month.

"He is very young and has a great talent. We chose not to waste him by letting him drive for another team," said Briatore, who explained that Alonso would replace Mark Webber.