Alonso 'moves a step closer to IndyCar'

Fernando Alonso will take a step closer to joining IndyCar in 2019 when he takes part in a road test in a 2018-spec car, RACER has reported. The two-time world champion has been widely tipped to head to the American series next year after confirming he will leave McLaren and Formula 1 at the end of 2018.

A victory at the Indianapolis 500 will secure the 'Triple Crown' for Alonso - previously a winner of the Monaco Grand prix and Le Mans 24 Hours - and see him match Graham Hill's currently unique feat.

Alonso took part in 2017's race at the brickyard in a McLaren entry aided by Andretti Autosport, who will reportedly facilitate the 37-year-old's test next month.

According to RACER, Barber Motorsports Park will play host to Alonso's test, with Andretti unable to gain data at a track on the remaining 2018 schedule as former F1 driver Alexander Rossi vies for the title.

It has been reported many times this year that Alonso has had test days booked in with IndyCar, but his manic 2018 calendar, with full F1 and World Endurance Championship commitments, has prevented it from going ahead.

“I can’t find words to describe what he’s managed to do in so few laps. … This is genius at work.” That time @alo_oficial took the lead in Indy.#INDYCAR // @IMS pic.twitter.com/9wLFsnTyPn — IndyCar Series (@IndyCar) August 15, 2018

IndyCar followed Alonso's announcement on Tuesday by confirming that the series remains committed to assisting McLaren as they look to enter a team in 2019, which would keep Alonso as a competitor under the team name.

The prospect has also been raised, however, of Andretti entering a 'junior' team in 2019, which could also give Alonso a seat in the series.