McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has revealed he will “continue to bug” Fernando Alonso about a sensational return to the Indy 500 once the Spaniard’s Formula 1 career comes to an end — a move that could cement motorsport history.
Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, has a long and complicated relationship with the Woking-based team. His first McLaren stint in 2007 ended after just one explosive season, despite entering as reigning champion, following a bruising internal battle with rookie teammate Lewis Hamilton.
Alonso’s Turbulent McLaren History
The partnership was rekindled in 2015, but McLaren’s struggles with Honda power units left Alonso stuck in the midfield. Frustration eventually led him to walk away from Formula 1 at the end of 2018.
However, it is outside F1 where Alonso’s McLaren chapter has produced some of its most memorable moments — particularly in IndyCar and the legendary Indianapolis 500.
Fernando Alonso and the Indy 500: A Mixed Record
Alonso has contested the Indy 500 three times, all with McLaren backing. His debut in 2017 was hugely impressive, qualifying fifth and leading laps before retiring due to reliability issues.
The following attempts were less successful. In 2019, Alonso shockingly failed to qualify, while his 2020 return ended with a 21st-place finish, one lap down. Despite those setbacks, Brown believes both McLaren and Alonso have unfinished business at the Brickyard.
Zak Brown: “We’ve Got a Car That Can Win”
Speaking to media, Brown confirmed discussions with Alonso are ongoing, especially as the Aston Martin driver approaches the final year of his current Formula 1 contract.
“Post when Fernando stops in F1 — this is his last contractual year, doesn’t mean he won’t continue — but I talk to him about the Indy 500 like every time I see him,” Brown said.
If Alonso accepts the challenge, he would be on the verge of joining an elite club.
The Historic Triple Crown Within Reach
A fourth Indy 500 attempt with McLaren could see Alonso become only the second driver in history, after Graham Hill, to complete motorsport’s coveted Triple Crown: victories at the Monaco Grand Prix, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Indianapolis 500.
Alonso already holds two-thirds of that achievement, having won Le Mans in 2019. The Indy 500 remains the final missing piece.
“I think we’ve got a car that can win the Indy 500. And I think he’s very capable of winning the Indy 500,” Brown added. “I thoroughly enjoyed racing with him here. He enjoyed it all but one of the years — the first year was magic.
“I’d love to see Fernando back at the Indy 500 with us. That’s something I’ll continue to bug him about.”
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