Jenson Button backs Fernando Alonso for another Indianapolis 500 attempt

Jenson Button has backed his former teammate Fernando Alonso for another shot at the Indianapolis 500, insisting "he absolutely has a chance" if the two-time F1 champion decides to return to the Brickyard.

Writing in his column for Aston Martin's website, Button praised Alonso's previous efforts and noted that only Graham Hill has completed motorsport's Triple Crown – winning the Monaco GP, Le Mans, and Indy 500. Alonso already has Monaco and Le Mans victories, leaving Indy as the final piece.

Why it matters:

Alonso's quest for the Triple Crown is one of motorsport's most compelling storylines. With his 45th birthday approaching, time is ticking, but Button's vote of confidence keeps the door open. A successful attempt would cement Alonso's legacy among the all-time greats.

The details:

• Alonso made his Indy 500 debut in 2017, swapping his McLaren F1 seat for a one-off entry. He led 27 laps before an engine failure ended his victory hopes.
• He returned in 2019 but failed to qualify, then finished 21st in 2020. Between those attempts, he took on and finished 13th in the Dakar Rally.
• Button, who replaced Alonso at Monaco in 2017, wrote: "Fernando probably has the best shot of anyone at completing the Triple Crown because he's already won Monaco and Le Mans, and he's come close at Indy, having led there."
• Button himself has no interest in competing in the Indy 500, but he would love to drive the Aston Martin Valkyrie at Le Mans one day.

What's next:

Alonso remains fully focused on helping Aston Martin improve its 2026 F1 campaign after a slow start. Asked in Canada about a future Indy return, he flatly stated: "It is not a priority at the moment." However, with his talents and Button's backing, the possibility of a fourth attempt is never far from discussion.