Chevrolet confirmed as McLaren engine partner for Indy 500

McLaren has confirmed it will race with a Chevrolet engine upon its return to the Indianapolis 500 in 2019 with Fernando Alonso.

McLaren announced last month it would be entering next year's Indy 500 as part of the Alonso's bid to complete the 'triple crown of motorsport', having most recently raced at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2017.

After partnering with both Andretti Autosport and Honda last year, McLaren confirmed it would be forming its own operational team for the 2019 running, as well as striking its own engine deal that was confirmed on Tuesday when the team announced it would be racing with Chevrolet engines at next year's Indy 500.

"McLaren and Chevrolet have a shared pedigree in North American motorsport and the opportunity to reunite the two brands for this special event was just too good to pass up,” said Zak Brown, McLaren Racing CEO.

“Like McLaren, Chevrolet has racing in its heart. The company’s reputation in IndyCar and at this special race is first-class and they will be a powerful partner."

"It’s exciting to partner with Fernando Alonso and McLaren for the 2019 Indianapolis 500,” added Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. Vice President of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.

“Fernando brings incredible driving talent, and a passion for the sport and winning the biggest races in the world. When Fernando is on track, it’s electric. He generates excitement among fans everywhere.

“Chevrolet and McLaren have a storied racing history dating back to the mid-1960s, so it will be special to partner with McLaren at the 2019 Indianapolis 500."

Alonso said he felt confident Chevrolet would be able to give him a chance to contend for victory in the Indy 500, which is the only missing leg from his 'triple crown' after victories at Le Mans and Monaco.

“It will be a privilege to wear the Bowtie Brand at the 2019 Indy 500. Having Chevrolet power behind me means we’re putting ourselves in the best possible position to compete at the front," Alonso said.

"I had a bit of a taste of Chevy power last this week in Jimmie [Johnson]’s NASCAR and I liked it! The opportunity to contest any Indy 500 is an honour, so I’m proud to have Chevrolet as part of the team."

Chevrolet is one of two engine partners racing in IndyCar, the other being Honda, who worked with McLaren in F1 between 2015 and 2017 prior to an early termination of their engine agreement.

It is understood Honda officials were uneasy of the prospect of working with McLaren again so soon, making Chevrolet the only realistic alternative for McLaren to consider.

Besides McLaren, Chevrolet will also power Team Penske, A.J. Foyt Racing, Ed Carpenter Racing and Juncos Racing at next year's Indy 500, having won the race with Penske driver Will Power this year.