Fernando Alonso to race for McLaren in 2019 Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — McLaren Racing will enter the 103rd running of the Indianapolis 500, with two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso, the racing group announced Saturday. 

Alonso raced for McLaren in the 2017 Indianapolis 500. Alonso led for 27 laps before being forced to leave the field with a mechanical issue around lap 180 of the race. 

“We are relishing our return to the Brickyard and this incredible race. McLaren has a long and fond relationship with the Indianapolis 500 and it’s a case of unfinished business for us with Fernando. No Indy 500 is a cakewalk, it’s a massive challenge. We have the utmost respect for the race and our competitors. So, we are under no illusions. But McLaren are racers first and foremost, as is Fernando. We’re going for it,” said Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing. 

The race would give Alonso the chance to attempt to become the second driver to accomplish what IndyCar calls “world motorsport’s unofficial Triple Crown: victories at the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance sports car race and the Indianapolis 500.”

“I’ve made clear for some time my desire to achieve the Triple Crown. I had an incredible experience at Indianapolis in 2017 and I knew in my heart of hearts I had to go back if the opportunity was there. I’m especially glad to be returning with McLaren. This was always my first choice if the team decided to do it, so I’m delighted they’ve decided to go ahead. It’s a tough race and we’ll be up against the best, so it will be a huge challenge. But we’re racers and that’s why we race. One of the things I’m looking forward to most is seeing the fans again, who are absolutely fantastic,” Alonso said in a statement.