2019 McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz have backed the possibility of Fernando Alonso testing the new car in Barcelona next February.
Though the two-time world champion called time on his Formula 1 career at the end of this past season, he is still expected to stay close to the British team as he’ll contest the Indianapolis 500 in papaya orange next May.
Given his wealth of knowledge and experience then, the new era line-up at Woking admit they’d be crazy not to use it if the offer was there.
“I think [Alonso’s input] will be very valuable,” Norris stated. “He’s got the best idea how the car’s changed over the years, the best experience of what’s good and what’s bad, a lot more than I do.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen or if he’s still going to be part of much. He’s still part of McLaren. It’s up to him.
“It would be cool. Of course, I would like to have as many days [in the car] as possible but if everyone comes to a decision and thinks it’s for the good of the whole team and his feedback will be just as important as mine or Carlos’, then I think it’s a good thing.”
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Sainz echoed his new teammate adding: “It’s something that for sure is in McLaren’s interests, or also Fernando’s interests to keep himself active.
“It’s a decision more up to the management than to ourselves, but I wouldn’t see it with bad eyes.
“I would see it as a good thing to have a driver like Fernando comparing cars.”
With McLaren keen to avoid a repeat of the problems from this past season and challenge in the midfield, almost not seeing Alonso at least get one day in February would probably be a surprise.