( CNN ) -- The thumbs of two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso are now insured for 10 million euros ( $ 13.3 million ) as part of a new campaign by Spanish-based bank Santander . Alonso 's thumbs are both essential to F1 driving and `` a sign of victory and that everything is under control and well-protected , '' the bank said in announcing the new deal . The Ferrari ace will be starring in a series of ads for Santander 's new insurance campaign , which kicked off Monday near Madrid . Alonso is a national hero in his native Spain after claiming back-to-back Formula One world championships in 2005 and 2006 when driving for Renault . He moved to McLaren for the 2007 season , but an intense rivalry on and off the track with teammate Lewis Hamilton led to Alonso leaving the team after one season . After returning to Renault for a second spell , the 28-year-old moved to Ferrari for the 2010 season , joining Felipe Massa at the famous Italian team . He led a Ferrari 1-2 at the opening round of this year 's championship in Bahrain , but has been less successful in the two latest races , lying third in the title race ahead of next weekend 's Spanish Grand Prix . `` We have n't always gained what we could have , according to our potential , but we 're fighting for the title and this is what counts more than anything else , '' he told gathered reporters as his unusual insurance deal was announced .
Italian F1 star Fernando Alonso has his thumbs insured for 10 million euros . The deal is part of an advertisement campaign by a Spanish -based bank . Fernando Alonso is hoping to set up his title bid with Santander at Monday Spanish GP .