‘McLaren showing interest in full-time Indy slot’

McLaren could yet tackle a full IndyCar programme in 2019; that’s according to IndyCar CEO Mark Miles.

McLaren stepped into the world of IndyCars earlier this season when Fernando Alonso contested the Indianapolis 500 in an Andretti Autosport-backed Honda-powered car.

Alonso qualified fifth and was on course for a strong finish before his Honda engine expires.

And although McLaren have denied reports that he will also contest the season-ending Sonoma Raceway event, McLaren are reportedly considering a full-time campaign come 2019.

“We know that there are options for McLaren to return to the Indianapolis 500 next year with Andretti Autosport,” Miles told El Mundo Deportivo.

“And McLaren is still interested in being a team in the Verizon IndyCar series full-time, probably not for 2018 but perhaps in 2019.”

He added: “Zak [Brown, McLaren chief] keeps asking questions about our schedule.”