Fernando Alonso will be back in the MCL32 this weekend for the Canadian Grand Prix, after participating in the Indy 500 during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.
The McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team driver had the opportunity to participate in the Indy 500 with Andretti Autosport, with Jenson Button standing in for Alonso during the Monaco Grand Prix. Despite failing to see the chequered flag at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it was an incredible experience for Alonso, now he is ready to get back to his ‘day job’ in Montreal.
“It’s good to be heading back to Canada,” said Alonso. “It feels like I’ve spent a lot of time in North America recently!
“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.”
Despite not being at the Monte Carlo street circuit, the Spaniard was kept updated throughout the whole weekend. Both Stoffel Vandoorne and Button reported positively on the new upgrades and reliability, despite neither driver finishing the Grand Prix.
Alonso knows the Montreal circuit will not suit their car as well as Monaco, but he is still excited to get back in the MCL32 and go racing with McLaren.
“I’ve always enjoyed the Canadian Grand Prix,” added Alonso. “The circuit is unique in that it’s very demanding on both the car and driver.
“While I was in Indy I was still keeping up-to-date with the news from Monaco, and Stoffel and Jenson 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!”
