Double world champion Fernando Alonso could take a year out of Formula One in 2008 and still come back as a title contender, Red Bull's David Coulthard said on Monday.

"I don't think it would be a problem for him to take a year out," the Briton told reporters at a presentation for the December 16 'Race of Champions' at Wembley Stadium, where the turf has been replaced by an asphalt circuit.

"(France's Alain) Prost was the last guy to do that, he took a year out and came back and won the world championship," added the Scot.

"If you can get yourself into one of the best two cars, then of course you've got a great chance of winning the championship."

Spaniard Alonso, beaten into third place by 22-year-old rookie teammate Lewis Hamilton in the championship, split with McLaren after a controversial and acrimonious season that ended in October.

He has yet to be confirmed elsewhere, despite rumours linking him to Renault, Red Bull, Honda and Toyota.

His former team Renault remain the most likely bet but Alonso may be waiting until after an FIA hearing on Thursday into allegations that they had McLaren technical information in their possession.

Similar allegations by Ferrari against McLaren cost the latter team a $US100 million ($A113 million) fine in September and the loss of all their constructors' points.

Spanish newspapers have reported that Alonso wants a one-year deal to allow a possible move to Ferrari in 2009 while interested teams are demanding he signs up for at least two seasons.

Champions Ferrari and McLaren won all the races this year and Coulthard doubted whether Alonso would find anywhere as competitive.

"It's going to be quite difficult to get a car that he can win more races in (than at McLaren)," said the Scot of Alonso's predicament. "It is a slightly strange strategy and way to manage your career."

Meanwhile, Ross Brawn's arrival as Honda team boss has put a smile back on Jenson Button's face after a nightmare 2007 season.

"I don't think you can say we will be challenging for the championship, because we won't be strong enough at the first race - coming from where we were to winning the championship has never been done before," said Button.

The 27-year-old had hoped to challenge for the title this year after taking his first race victory in Hungary in 2006. Instead, he scored just six points - his team's entire tally from 17 races.

Brawn, the tactical mastermind behind retired German Michael Schumacher's seven titles at Benetton and Ferrari, arrived at Honda Racing in November after taking a year's sabbatical.

"Before he opens his mouth it lifts the team because of what he has achieved," said Button.

"He comes with a lot of experience and he also falls into a role that we haven't had for a long time, the leadership on the technical side. And that's what we need."

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