Fernando Alonso has hinted he still sees a reason for optimism at McLaren as speculation grows over a possible switch to IndyCar in 2019.
Michael Andretti, a team owner in the American series, was at the Canadian GP last weekend after CEO Zak Brown and Alonso’s manager were reportedly in the States discussing a full-time McLaren entry in IndyCar next season.
Following regular comments about how “sad” F1 has become and the possibility of being just an Indianapolis 500 away from the Triple Crown after this weekend’s Le Mans 24 Hours makes a switch seem even more likely, however, the 36-year-old is adamant nothing has been decided.
“I don’t know, 2019 is still a long way ahead,” he told Sky Sports after retiring from his 300th F1 race in Montreal.
“Normally, I try to take my decisions after the summer break and this year is no different. An important decision is coming for sure.”
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McLaren’s inability to produce a car capable of challenging the top three teams has become the main frustration for Alonso, yet the double world champion does think the potential for success is still there.
“The gap to the front guys is quite significant, but McLaren and Renault are here to win and have won many things in the past,” he claimed.
“I see a great future a bright future for this combination. I don’t know if the win will happen this year, next year or in five years.
“Definitely, this combination will bring nice results.”
Now in northern France ahead of his first Le Mans with Toyota, Fernando is looking forward to what will be a step into the unknown.
“It will be another new experience there and hopefully a good race for us,” he stated.