Share

Fernando Alonso calls off his planned visit to the US Grand Prix

Fernando Alonso has called off a scheduled appearance at the US grand prix this weekend.

Sources have told the Spanish media that he was scheduled to be in Austin as a McLaren brand ambassador.

Still in touch

It is also rumoured that McLaren may have used the occasion of Alonso's presence to announce that the 38-year-old will make another bid for Indy 500 victory next year.

READ: #DakarRally2020 - Toyota Gazoo Racing SA announces Alonso, Coma as fourth team entry



Do you think Fernando Alonso will eventually return to F1 - with a big team? Email us.

But after confirming that he will contest the famous Dakar rally next January, Alonso is instead testing with Toyota in Spain this week ahead of a rally in Saudi Arabia starting next Monday.

READ | Formula 1 return is 'getting harder' - Fernando Alonso

Despite that, the Spaniard admitted he is not realistically targeting the Dakar win.

"Based on experience, I would say that we cannot have that objective," he is quoted by El Mundo newspaper.

"But going into a race or a challenge thinking about a 0% chance would be stupid, which is why I say the likelihood is 1%," Alonso added.

At the same time, Alonso said he is not going to build a career in the off-road rallying world.

"I do not have it in mind to do Dakar every year," he said.

"But after this preparation and the knowledge, I will have, if I repeat the adventure someday I will be more prepared. But I would not put it at the level of the Indy challenge."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()