Double IndyCar champion Gil de Ferran has been called upon to coach Fernando Alonso throughout the month of May at the Indianapolis 500, as the double Formula 1 champion prepares to make his IndyCar debut at the iconic event.
In a decision which has left the sporting world in a state of shock, Alonso has elected to miss the Monaco Grand Prix at the end of May to compete at the Brickyard with a historic McLaren, Andretti Autosport and Honda partnership.
With Alonso a complete rookie on super speedway ovals and Indy cars, the Spanish racer will be calling upon all of his vast skill set to instantly get up to speed alongside IndyCar regulars such as reigning champion Simon Pagenaud and four-time champion Scott Dixon.
When asked what would be the biggest learning curve throughout the Indianapolis 500, Alonso was typically nonchalant in his response.
“Everything,” enthused Alonso, during his highly anticipated visit to the IndyCar paddock in Alabama.
"The traffic I think, the level of downforce, feeling with the car, running with a car that's not symmetric on the straights, on braking.
“Traffic is a big thing from what I'm hearing.
“Let's see if I can learn as quick as I can.
“I'm with the best team possible for this type of lessons.
“Also with coach Gil de Ferran, which I'm sure will be very useful for all these new things.
“We will be prepared.”
During de Ferran’s competitive IndyCar career he racked up 12 victories, including the 2000 and 2001 championship crowns with Penske.
After his career de Ferran became an ambassador for Honda, even becoming the manufacturer’s F1 sporting director between 2005 and 2007.
"I will try to mentor him through his introduction to the speedway and its nuances,” explained the 2003 Indianapolis 500 champion to BBC Sport.
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