Even though McLaren driver Fernando Alonso failed to escape the pain of a blown Honda engine in the recent Indy 500, the Spaniard has declared himself more than happy with the way the last two weeks have panned out.
With just 21 laps remaining of the iconic rae, Alonso once again suffered the fate of a blown Honda engine, something he cant seem to escape from no matter what series he participates in.
But, he failed to let the situation get him down and thanked everyone for their interest in his recent endeavour.
One thing he was very proud of was that at one stage he was actually leading the field. That will be a memory that nothing, not even another retirement, will ever be able to take from him…
"Obviously it's disappointing not to finish the race because every race you compete, you want to be at the chequered flag. But that was not possible,” Alonso said. "The last two weeks have been a great experience. I came here basically to prove myself and to challenge myself. I know that I can be as quick as anyone in an F1 car; I didn't know if I can be as quick as anyone in an IndyCar."
"It was nice to have this competitive feeling – even leading the Indy 500. I was passing, watching the tower, and saw the 29 on top of it. I was thinking at that moment if Zak or someone from the team was taking a picture, because I want that picture at home!”
"Thanks to IndyCar, thanks to Indianapolis, and thanks to the fans. I felt at home. I'm not American, but I felt really proud to race here. Finally, congratulations to Sato San and to Andretti. We have been sharing the last two weeks and Takuma was a lot of help, in coming from F1. I'm extremely happy for the final result."
