Lewis Hamilton has paid tribute to Fernando Alonso describing the Spaniard as "one of the greatest drivers" to have competed in Formula 1.

During the summer break, the double world champion announced he would be leaving McLaren at the end of this season and while he has not ruled out a future return, does admit he considers this to be his last year on the grid.

The relationship between Hamilton and Alonso has been well-documented from their infamous bust-up at the British team in 2007 to the healthy respect they have since gained for each other in the decade since.

However, commenting on Fernando's decision to leave, the now Mercedes driver admits he won't particularly miss his former teammate.

“Naturally I don’t hold sadness for it. There’s no reason for me to hold sadness for it,” Hamilton said on Thursday.

“For sure, in the racing world he will be missed, and within the racing the world he has been a really big part of it and is one of the greatest drivers that have ever been here.

“I would say it is a shame that he is not as decorated as his ability deserves, but sport is a very interesting machine and it’s not just about being a great driver," he added.

“It is how you manoeuvre, how you play the game, it’s like a chess game and how you position yourself with all the different things that are also part of the package.”

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Nevertheless, still driving at a level which puts him among the best on the grid, the Briton does admire the longevity of Alonso's career which began with Minardi in 2001.

"17 seasons is a lot, and I have huge respect for that because it is not easy for a driver to stay that long and perform," Hamilton said.

“It’s a lot of commitment, a lot of time and a lot of dedication that people might not understand and appreciate. But naturally, as within any sport, I can appreciate it.”