Feb.28 (GMM) Despite describing his relationship with Lewis Hamilton as "non-existent", Fernando Alonso has flagged the possibility that the 23-year-old could be crowned world champion in 2008.

While playing down his own hopes of winning a third drivers' title with Renault this year, Alonso told BBC radio's Five Live programme that his former McLaren teammate might win the championship at his second attempt.

Rather than subscribe to the theory that a driver's second season is often more difficult than the first, Alonso said experience makes life "easier" on the F1 grid.

Asked specifically if Hamilton could win the 2008 title, the Spaniard answered: "Possibly, yes.

"After a year, you know all the circuits and how the races go," Alonso, 26, said.

"You understand the pressures so there are many things that will give him an advantage compared to last year."

Alonso also said Hamilton's new teammate, Heikki Kovalainen, and Ferrari's Felipe Massa could win the title, but singled out reigning world champion Kimi Raikkonen as the favourite.

"He has the self confidence and he is obviously very quick, so he has put himself in a very strong position," he said of the Finn.