McLaren-Honda’s Fernando Alonso says he is eager to return to his “day job” in Formula 1 this weekend, in the wake of his exploits at the Indianapolis 500.
Alonso participated in the event for the Andretti-run McLaren team, skipping the Monaco Grand Prix, and qualified fifth, before running among the lead pack for the majority of the race.
However, Alonso’s starring performance came to an end with 21 laps remaining, amid a Honda engine failure, and he will now return to the cockpit of the MCL32 in Canada this weekend.
“The Indy 500 was an incredible experience and it’s been amazing to learn a completely different style of driving, on a different circuit layout and with a very different car, but I’m ready to get back to my ‘day job’ and go racing in F1 again,” he said.
“I’ve always enjoyed the Canadian Grand Prix. The circuit is unique in that it’s very demanding on both the car and driver, so it’s a real racer’s track.
“While I was in Indy I was still keeping up-to-date with the news from Monaco, and Stoffel [Vandoorne] and Jenson [Button] both reported positively on the new upgrades and reliability, so I hope we can continue to see a step forward in Canada.
“The layout of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve means it’s very power-limited and therefore dependent on straight-line speed and power.
“It’s not going to suit our car as much as the twisty, slower corners of Monaco, but I’m excited to get back in the MCL32, catch up with the guys and girls in the team and get back out on track – not only turning left this time!”
McLaren’s 2017 campaign has been characterised by a lack of reliability and performance, with the team yet to score a point, recording only three finishes from 12 starts.
