McLaren respond to Fernando Alonso return speculation

McLaren chief Zak Brown has joked that he would need Formula 1 to allow for a third car if Fernando Alonso were to make a return to the team, as he is very happy with the performances of current drivers Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris.

In Alonso’s last stint in F1 he performed for McLaren, but was unable to break into the triopoly held by Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull and has not won a championship for over a decade.

He decided to leave the sport after last season to pursue his motorsport ‘Triple Crown’ goal, but has previously said he could make a return if he wanted to.

When asked about Alonso coming back, Brown says it wouldn’t be possible as there is no space for him.

“Then I first have to ask [F1 CEO] Chase Carey if I can use three cars,” Brown told Auto Motor und Sport.

“We have long-term contracts with our current drivers [Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz] and are also very satisfied with them.

“Fortunately, Fernando has not yet called. There are currently no cockpits available.

“Our current drivers have done super well so far. They have achieved Q3 in fifty percent of the cases and give us good feedback.

Brown also suggested that part of the team’s current success in being the ‘best of the rest’ team in fourth place in the constructors’ championship is the relationship dynamic between Sainz and Norris.

“Moreover, they get along well, so I don’t have to worry about fear when they fight each other,” the McLaren boss added.

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