McLaren invites Fernando Alonso to race in the Indianapolis 500 once again

Fernando Alonso had severed ties with McLaren en F1 after a mixed spell from 2015 to 2018, marked by a GP2 engine that was more than frustrating for the driver. IndyCar On the contrary, he remained loyal to the Papayes, making three appearances alongside them, even after joining Aston Martin. So there's nothing surprising about Zak Brown's invitation.

The Spaniard – who was racing with McLaren in F1 at the time – had indeed skipped the Monaco Grand Prix in favor of the Indianapolis 500 in 2017. This year, while he was a contender for victory, the Spaniard was hampered by an engine problem and finished 29th in the Indy 500 with McLaren-Honda-Andretti. In 2019, he failed to qualify with McLaren Racing and finished 31st in 2020 with Arrow McLaren SP. I really enjoyed running with him here, and he enjoyed everything except one of the years. admits the head of McLaren Racing. He loved the first year, it was magical. I'd love to see Fernando return to the Indianapolis 500 with us. I'll keep teasing him about it. »

Thus, Zak Brown still hopes to convince Alonso to try the experience again. This is his last year under contract, but that doesn't mean he won't continue [in F1]. But I talk to him about [the Indy 500] every time I see him. acknowledges Zak Brown. I think we have a car capable of winning the Indianapolis 500. It's absolutely capable of winning them. »

For his part, Fernando Alonso, whose sporting motivation is undeniable, still covets a third F1 world title at 44 years old. With his contract with Aston Martin expiring at the end of the 2026 season, Fernando Alonso could turn his attention to another title: the Triple Crown, which only one driver has managed to achieve. Graham Hill is the only man to have secured a victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, a success in the 24 Hours of Le Mans as well as a triumph at the Indianapolis 500. One question remains, however: would Alonso commit to the Indy 500 while still racing in F1, or would he prefer a later participation?

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