Alonso relishing return to 'crazy' Monaco

Fernando Alonso hopes McLaren can emerge from the "crazy" nature of the Monaco Grand Prix to secure success as he returns to Monte Carlo for the first time in two years. Alonso skipped F1's most famous race in 2017 in order to compete at the Indianapolis 500.

A two-time winner in Monaco, Alonso has not taken to the podium in the principality since finishing third for Ferrari in 2012.

Although the low-power nature of the renowned street circuit is expected to see Red Bull and Ferrari dominate Mercedes at the front of the field, it is unlikely to help McLaren into the fight for honours, despite their improvements with Renault.

READ MORE: Red Bull's Monaco milestone
READ MORE: Ferrari fightback tipped for Monaco

But Alonso, having scored points in all five races this year, is excited to take to the streets once again this week.

He said: "Heading back to Monaco will be really exciting after a little break last year!

"I loved the Indy experience of course, but Monaco is also a really special place to go racing, and it's easy to see why it's such a famous venue for a grand prix.

"It's one of the most technically challenging circuits of the year simply because of the level of skill and concentration you need to get around lap after lap 78 times, as well as negotiating the traffic, strategy, weather and everything else this crazy race throws at you.

"I'm looking forward to getting behind the wheel there for the first time in two years and seeing how our car performs.

"For sure, we know the limitations of our package, and a slow-speed track such as this requires a totally unique set-up compared to anywhere else on the calendar, but it's up to everyone to adapt and get the most out of our equipment.

"Monaco is one of those tracks that tends to level the playing field a little and it's a bit like throwing a dice.

"As we saw in Spain, even if you qualify well it doesn't mean you won't fall victim to drama which can change things around. So, we need to maximise everything on Saturday, and then fight hard on Sunday to earn as many points as possible."