Fernando Alonso Hints At F1 Return, Reveals 2019 IndyCar Plans

Fernando Alonso is leaving Formula 1 at the end of the 2018 season but revealed during a recent interview it is not a permanent goodbye as he could return in the future – even as soon as 2020.

The Spaniard has spent 17 seasons in the sport which has yielded two F1 Drivers’ championships and numerous title challenges. But, after spending the last four seasons fighting on the wrong side of the grid he decided to bid farewell and explore other avenues of motor racing.

Along with his F1 commitments in 2018, Alonso is also driving a full season in the World Endurance Championship and is on course to win the title. He along with his teammates from the Toyota Gazoo Racing team are leading the championship by 14 points.

Alonso admitted winning the LeMans 24-hour race was the main reason for him joining the WEC and he accomplished that in June this year. But, he is now keen on adding the WEC title to the two he won in F1 in 2005 and 2006.

The Spanish racer, however, is yet to give a clear indication of his plans for the 2019 season. It was believed he could enter the IndyCar Series in the United States as it is no secret he wants to win the Indy500 to complete the Triple Crown having won the Monaco Grand Prix and LeMans.

Alonso tested a Honda powered Andretti Autosport car at the Barber Motor Speedway earlier in the year, but has now made it clear he has no intention of driving a full season in the American motor racing series. He is interested in giving Indy500 another shot after failing in his first attempt in 2017, but it is likely to be a one-off rather than a full season.

And the Spaniard also revealed his foray into IndyCar is unlikely to be with McLaren, with whom he made his first attempt in 2017. Alonso is keen to spend some time away from racing and recharge his batteries after 17 seasons of continuous racing, and if he can find a competitive race seat the Spaniard could be back in F1 in 2020.

"I'd like to do it, to be honest. It was a magical race last year and it still has an appeal for me, especially after winning Le Mans this year. It's part of my project for next year's calendar," Alonso said, as quoted by Wheels 24.

"I need to rest and recover my motivation, which is why I do not want to do a full Indycar season. It would be like continuing in F1, where in 2020 I could return," the two time F1 world champion added.

Alonso, meanwhile, has denied speculation he has bought the television rights to telecast the IndyCar Series in Spain. But, he admitted the idea did intrigue him with a potential deal now being explored.

"I read that and to my knowledge we have not been negotiating any of that. But it has made me think that it would be a good idea and I will explore it," Alonso said.