Photo: John Dagys
Fernando Alonso has ruled out taking part in next year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, as the newly signed McLaren Honda driver is set to focus 100 percent of his attention on Formula One.
The 33-year-old Spaniard had been linked to a possible drive in the twice-around-the-clock French endurance classic alongside fellow F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg in Porsche’s third 919 Hybrid entry.
However, Alonso, who made an appearance in the FIA World Endurance Championship paddock in Bahrain last month, told Spanish media that his full attention is currently on F1.
“I would not feel comfortable if I do not devote 100 percent to McLaren throughout the year,” Alonso told Marica.com.
“I’m sure I could devote myself to both at 100 percent but it’s a personal matter. There is a lot of work to do here [at McLaren].”
Having served as the race starter in this year’s edition, Alonso hasn’t hidden his desire to one day compete at Le Mans.
“It’s a career I love and I’m sure there will be many opportunities when I’m done in F1 but for this year, it’s not possible,” he said.
Porsche has delayed its decision on the final two drivers for its third LMP1 entry for Le Mans and the FIA WEC Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps.
Michael Christensen, Fred Makowiecki and Nick Tandy all received a second test in a 2014-spec car last week, with the remainder of the lineup now likely to be filled by the factory GT pilots.
An announcement from the German manufacturer is not expected until early into the New Year.
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