Zak Brown open to Fernando Alonso Indy 500 return with McLaren

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has expressed a strong desire to field Fernando Alonso in a future Indianapolis 500, believing the combination of his team and the two-time F1 champion could finally secure motorsport's elusive Triple Crown. Alonso's previous three attempts with McLaren ended in heartbreak, from engine failure while leading to a shocking failure to qualify.

Why it matters:

Alonso is one of the most accomplished drivers of his generation, but the Indy 500 remains the final piece of the unofficial 'Triple Crown' of motorsport—a feat only achieved by Graham Hill. A victory would cement his legacy across multiple racing disciplines in a way few modern drivers can claim, making a potential return a major narrative in global motorsport.

The details:

• Brown confirmed he regularly discusses a return with Alonso, stating, "I’ll continue to bug him about it."
• The McLaren CEO is confident in the package, saying, "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 history at the Brickyard with McLaren is marked by near-misses and misfortune:
  • 2017: Led 27 laps before an engine failure ended his race.
  • 2019: Failed to qualify in a major shock.
  • 2020: Finished a lowly 21st.
• Despite the past frustrations, Brown recalled the 2017 attempt as "magic," highlighting the potential of the partnership.

What's next:

For now, Alonso's immediate focus is on his Formula 1 duties with Aston Martin and their ambitious 2026 project. McLaren has already filled one of its Indy 500 seats for 2026 with veteran Ryan Hunter-Reay. While Alonso has acknowledged the Indy 500 is "of course" on his wishlist, he has also expressed uncertainty about a future attempt, with winning the Dakar Rally also remaining a goal. Any return would depend on his F1 commitments and personal motivation to conquer the one race that has repeatedly slipped through his grasp.