Alonso revels in 'special' IndyCar test

Fernando Alonso was delighted to get back behind the wheel of IndyCar machinery after testing an Andretti Autosport car at Barber Motorsports Park on Wednesday. Two-time Formula 1 champion Alonso is likely to join the American series in 2019 as he seeks the 'Triple Crown'.

Although Alonso has maintained that his participation in the road test does not mean he will certainly join IndyCar next year, it appears a matter of course.

McLaren are attempting to enter a team into IndyCar next year, but there is little doubt that a seat will be found for Alonso regardless and the 37-year-old talked up the series yet again after his test in Alabama.

"It was a good day, a fun day," Alonso said. "I love to test new cars and to test the Indy car on a road course is something special.

What a day????!! Grateful to be again behind the wheel of an Indycar . Thanks @McLarenF1 and @FollowAndretti for the effort to make this test happen . The guys running the car were amazing. Thanks @BarberMotorPark , challenging and beautiful circuit. ????: @IndyCar pic.twitter.com/sN2vo3Cx0s — Fernando Alonso (@alo_oficial) September 6, 2018

"I've been lucky enough to test it in wet conditions, in intermediate conditions and in dry conditions, so overall I had a good feeling on every type of track. The weather was good for us today – a little bit of wind in the afternoon but overall a positive day.

"I think I love the way the car feels on a road course, but I love the way you compete on ovals, timing the tows, traffic and all the overtaking manoeuvres I think are a little bit easy on the ovals, so in terms of track action, I loved the Indy 500.

"It was something that I was looking for last year already. I had some options to test the car on a road course after the Indy 500.

"We didn't find the time but this year it's definitely happened now and I'm happy for this.

"I love being behind a steering wheel, and definitely a new car, a new experience, learning a lot of things from the team, the engineers, everyone, so a happy day."