Fernando Alonso to run Chevy-powered car for 2019 Indy 500 bid

Fernando Alonso has been attempting to achieve a motorsport 'Triple Crown', victories in three major racing events in the world - the Monaco Grand Prix, 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Indiannapolis 500. While not an official title or accoldate, the feat has so far only been achieved by British race driver Graham Hill, who won all three events during his career in the 1960s.

After being failed by Honda (yet again) on his first attempt at securing the Indy 500 crown last year, it’s safe to say that Fernando Alonso is keen on looking for a different powerplant for his next attempt to win the race. Having led for 27 laps in last year’s race only to suffer from engine failure, the two-time Formula One champion was robbed of an opportunity to secure the triple crown. Now that he’s also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota, only the Indy 500 stands in his way to complete the trifecta.

For next year, it appears Alonso will be switching to a tried-and-tested home-grown American powerplant: A twin-turbo V6 from Chevrolet. Following a test at Bahrain International Circuit using Jimmy Johnson’s NASCAR and confirmation to drive for Cadillac at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, Alonso just has the right amount of strings to pull to secure a GM powerplant for his McLaren Indy 500 racer.

"It will be a privilege to wear the Bowtie Brand at the 2019 Indy 500", said Alonso. "Having Chevrolet power behind me means we’re putting ourselves in the best possible position to compete at the front. It’s also worth noting that it was a Chevrolet motor that powered Will Power’s Penske entry to victory at this year's Indy 500 last May.

Since the introduction of the 2.2L Twin Turbo V6 for Indy use, Chevrolet has won 73 out of the 118 total races held since the engine came out. It appears then that Alonso will no longer have an excuse if he doesn’t win the Indy 500. Will this mean he’ll get his triple crown next year?