NUERBURGRING, Germany, May 7 - World champion Fernando Alonso looked forward to winning his home Spanish Grand Prix next weekend after two defeats in a row to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher.

"I think we need to improve a little bit in all areas in the car and I think Barcelona will be a good point, because we have always been quick there in testing," the Renault driver said after finishing second in Sunday's European Grand Prix.

"(Tyre partner) Michelin has been in a dominant position in Barcelona over the last two years, so I'm really looking forward to winning that one."

Seven times world champion Schumacher has enjoyed 'home' advantage for the past two races.

The first was a defensive battle in the San Marino Grand Prix at Imola's Enzo and Dino Ferrari circuit and the second at the closest track to his boyhood home in Kerpen, near Cologne, where he has now won five times.

Even without the army of red-shirted fans and immense local support, Schumacher would still have been too strong and Renault recognised that they had been beaten fair and square.

"We were fighting against rivals who were just a bit faster," said team boss Flavio Briatore.

"Fernando didn't put a foot wrong today...we have to admit, though, that the combination of Bridgestone (tyres) and Ferrari was too strong for us today -- and in those conditions, finishing second is like winning.

"Congratulations to Ferrari, but we hope to be fighting for the victory again in Barcelona."

Alonso could be content with his day, despite seeing his lead over Schumacher reduced to 13 points after finishing on the podium for the 11th race in a row and starting from pole position.

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