After claiming the Formula One World Championship Fernando Alonso has been awarded his countries highest sporting award. Alonso, the youngest Champion ever, was awarded the Principe de Asturias in his home town on Friday.

The ceremony was attended by two members of the Spanish royal family, the Queen Sofia and Crown Prince Felipe.

Alonso has become a sporting hero in his homeland and the 24 year-old Renault driver looked overjoyed to receive the award which has cycling great, Lance Armstrong, and tennis legend, Martina Navratilova as some of its past winners.

"I am going to do all I can to win again next year," Alonso shouted to the huge crowd that had gathered to congratulate him.

"This is a day for you, not for me. It is a lot easier to drive at 300 kph knowing that you are not alone. I hope you never stop supporting me."

Lauda says he does not agree with those who believe Kimi Raikkonen was a more worthy F1 Champion, saying Alonso did exactly what he needed to do, with great skill and a strong temperament.

"Alonso kept his head and scored the points he needed to, while McLaren pushed like crazy and made costly errors.” said the 56 year-old Austrian.