Fernando Alonso "is bored" and "needs a challenge" according to Niki Lauda

The announcement of the news had the effect of a bomb. Fernando Alonso decided to withdraw from the Monaco Grand Prix this year to try his luck at the Indianapolis 500 and attempt to achieve the triple crown of winners of the Indy 500, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Already having two victories in the Monégasque Principality, the Spanish driver has therefore decided to abandon a McLaren performing below expectations this year, to begin his quest in the United States.

Many observers in the world of Formula 1 have criticized this choice, especially since the race in Monaco may be one of the only opportunities for McLaren and its driver to shine this year.

For Niki Lauda, non-executive director of Mercedes, the McLaren bosses made a difficult choice: “As a driver, I understand. But from McLaren’s point of view, letting him go during the most important race of the year and where they could have their best results of the season, it’s a difficult decision to make,” he stated to the Spanish media outlet Movistar.

But the triple Austrian world champion understands Alonso’s weariness and his desire to explore elsewhere: « He’s bored and needs a challenge. It’s a good decision for him, he’ll be able to have fun and do things he currently can’t. I’m curious to see what he’ll do in Indianapolis. »

However, the future of the Spaniard in Formula 1 seems tied to McLaren and the possible progress the team can make in the coming months. Even though Alonso has had discussions with Renault, Lauda does not think he can join the current top two teams, Ferrari and Mercedes, mainly because of his character: « He left problems behind when leaving all his teams. I don’t think Ferrari wants to work with him again. He left them with a contract. The same thing happened with McLaren. We have two drivers doing their job well, so if we win with Hamilton and Bottas, we don’t need to replace them. »

Nonetheless, Lauda acknowledges Alonso’s undeniable talent: « He is fast and aggressive, and he is the best at that. But unfortunately, some drivers cannot prove their talent because of the choices they make, and Alonso has made a lot of mistakes. He left Ferrari really early and decided to go to McLaren, but the development issues with Honda were already known. Now, he is disappointed. But going to McLaren was his decision. »

The covers are off. Get up close and personal with the #McLarenHondaAndretti #29. #AlonsoRunsIndy pic.twitter.com/LvMqf0Hj2L

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) 3 mai 2017