Zak Brown Invites Alonso Back to Indy 500 with McLaren

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has extended an open invitation to Fernando Alonso for a potential fourth attempt at the Indianapolis 500, stating the two-time F1 champion simply needs to "knock on his door." Brown, who has previously fielded extra cars for Alonso and other stars like Juan Pablo Montoya in the iconic race, believes the Spaniard has the capability to win it.

Why it matters:

Alonso's pursuit of motorsport's unofficial 'Triple Crown'—winning the Monaco Grand Prix, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Indy 500—remains a compelling story. Only the Indy 500 eludes him. Brown's persistent offer highlights McLaren's unique role as a bridge between F1 and IndyCar, facilitating cross-discipline challenges for top drivers and keeping Alonso's legendary career ambitions in the spotlight.

The details:

• Brown confirmed he regularly discusses the Indy 500 with Alonso, praising their previous partnership and the potential of a reunion: "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."
• Alonso's Indy 500 history with McLaren is a mix of promise and frustration:
  • 2017: He led 27 laps and was competitive before a Honda engine failure forced a retirement.
  • 2019: He failed to qualify during a sabbatical from F1.
  • 2020: He started 26th and finished outside the top ten due to a clutch issue.
• McLaren's 2024 Indy 500 lineup includes veteran Ryan Hunter-Reay in a fourth car, demonstrating the team's continued commitment to running extra entries for accomplished drivers.

What's next:

The ball is in Alonso's court. While focused on his F1 championship ambitions with Aston Martin, he has acknowledged the Indy 500 and the Dakar Rally remain on his motorsport "wishlist." Brown has vowed to continue the conversation, but any return would depend on Alonso's F1 commitments and personal desire to tackle the Brickyard again. For now, the door at McLaren remains conspicuously open.