Alonso's thumbs-up

Fernando Alonso's thumbs have been insured for £9 million in a bizarre deal arranged by a personal sponsor. The announcement is designed to raise awareness of Santander's life and accident insurance packages - but it's not clear why only his thumbs are insured and not his whole hand.

A spokesperson said: "Alonso's thumbs are a big symbol as, apart from being essential when driving a Formula One car, they represent a sign of victory and that everything is under control and well protected."

The arrangement was announced as Alonso signed a new one-year deal with Santander.
Alonso is currently in joint-third place in the F1 drivers' championship, alongside McLaren's Lewis Hamilton.