Lauda backs Alonso for title

Niki Lauda has backed Fernando Alonso to win the 2012 F1 title, stating that the Ferrari man can only be beaten if he elects to 'stop racing'.

A third place finish in Singapore means the Spaniard sits 29 points clear of Sebastian Vettel with six races remaining, and remains the man to beat on the back of his eighth podium of the year.

While numerous drivers - such as Vettel, Kimi Raikkonen and Lewis Hamilton - retain hopes of beating Alonso to the crown, Lauda said he felt the Spaniard would be difficult to beat having shown himself to be a figure who epitomises what a champion should be.

"He is making all the right moves," the Austrian told the official F1 website. "He is fast and he is getting the car over the finish line. He is aggressive when needed. He is Mr Right, right now.

"The big question is whether Alonso will stop racing. (laughs) If so, then the others might get into a position where they can catch up. But why should he stop? I say that he will carry on racing the way he has done so far and then the list of those who count themselves still in the running is dramatically reduced.

"[Alonso] will score the most points. He will be champion if he carries on like he has done up until now. Why should he change?"