Brown backs Alonso for IndyCar test

Fernando Alonso could test IndyCar machinery before the end of the year, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has confirmed, amid suggestions that the Spaniard may make a switch to the American series in 2019. Alonso's only previous taste of the series came in his 2017 Indianapolis 500 performance.

The two-time world champion had been reported to have a test lined up with the Andretti Autosport team he raced for at the Brickyard during F1's shutdown after the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Brown rejected that suggestion, but admitted that Alonso could move a step closer to switching series later in the year as he pursues the Indy 500 victory he needs to complete the 'Triple Crown'.

"Fernando isn't testing next week in Portland and was never scheduled to test there but he may test later in the year," Brown told Racer.

"He's got a World Endurance Championship race in August so he's staying in Europe during our break.

"But he may test later this fall. His calendar is pretty hectic so we're trying to find a gap.

"He would be mega in IndyCar and I think he would love IndyCar racing. And I think IndyCar would love him as well."

While Alonso conceded that finding time in his hectic schedule for an IndyCar test would be tough, he did not rule out the possibility.

"I have 13 or 14 races to do, not only the F1 so I think it's going to be difficult to fit anymore in the calendar," he told reporters at the Hungaroring.

"I definitely plan to do one more race in go karts, or two. Some endurance races, but more than that is difficult to fit in."