Oxford-based driver Fernando Alonso realised a dream after roaring into the Formula 1 world championship lead with victory in the Malaysian Grand Prix yesterday.

The 23-year-old dominated the race from pole postiion to beat Jarno Trulli, in a Toyota, by 24.3secs, with Nick Heidfeld, driving a Grove-based Williams, third.

David Coulthard finished sixth to become Britain's top points-scoring driver, overtaking Nigel Mansell.

Michael Schumacher could finish only seventh in his Ferrari, while Jenson Button retired after three laps with engine failure.

Alonso made it clear he has no intention of losing top spot over the next 17 races.

"We need to take care of our car, our pace and performance now in these days while Ferrari are not so strong," he said. "We need to take first positions and the points.

"It is a fantastic feeling not just to be the first Spaniard to be first in the championship, but to lead the world championship in Formula 1 is a dream for any young driver.

"I have reached this when 23-years-old and I now only need to finish in this position in the championship."

But the former Minardi driver expects a backlash over the next few races from Renault's rivals, starting in Bahrain.

He added: "I think Ferrari and Michael Schumacher will be stronger opponents for everybody when they sort out the problems they have now.

Result (top six): 1 F Alonso (Renault) 1hr 31mins 33.7secs, 2 J Trulli (Toyota) 1.31.58.0, 3 N Heidfeld (Williams) 1.32.05.0, 4 J Montoya (McLaren) 1.32.15.3, 5 R Schumacher (Toyota) 1.32.25.5, 6 D Coulthard (Red Bull) 1.32.46.2.

Driver standings: 1 F Alonso (Renault) 16pts, 2 G Fisichella (Renault) 10, 3= J Trulli (Toyota), R Barrichello (Ferrari), D Coulthard (Red Bull), J Montoya (McClaren) 8.

Constructor standings: 1 Renault 26pts, 2 Toyota 12, 3 Red Bull 11, 4= Ferrari, Williams 10, 6 McLaren 9.