Fernando Alonso has admitted that he is surprised to be leading the Formula 1 championship ahead of this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix.

Ferrari were expected to struggle this season due to their inconsistent performances in pre-season testing but Alonso has begun the campaign impressively.

Alonso said on Ferrari's website: "For sure, arriving here in China as the leader of the Championship is something I would never have expected, at least given the way winter testing went.

"I know I can count on a very strong group, which is very important and there is a great sense of purpose shared by all. We know our car is not at the level we had wanted going into this season, but everyone is reacting very well, everyone is very united, which is what you get with a real team that wants to reach its objectives."

Alonso has won two world titles in his career.