While I appreciate that someone took the time to look at the situation from many angles, I would say that's far from conclusive. At this point, nearly everything is speculation with the possible exception of Penske, since he came right out and said he was not interested. However, "at this time" allows him an out.
I believe if Fernando wants to race in IndyCar, he will race in IndyCar. For the simple reason that he has leverage.
This is a series that certainly has emerged from the ashes of the dark days of the split and the ultimate failure of ChampCar. But it's far from what it was going in, and there's tremendous potential to market to a broader, global audience. Not to mention that NASCAR is vulnerable now, for a variety of reasons, mainly self inflicted. There are eyeballs to be gained, and this is a driver who would make a significant and immediate impact.
They have the new
TV contract with NBC next year, with 8 races to be broadcast on their free to air network (up from 5). They are still on the lookout for a
replacement title sponsor, as far as we know. If you're the people in charge of those decisions and marketing the series, you will want Alonso.
That same article you linked to mentioned Zack Brown talking to Chevrolet in Detroit. There's nothing to prevent McLaren from running a car with a Chevrolet engine. And the series itself may very well work to influence Honda based on the benefit his arrival would provide.
With his other sportscar commitments, it may not happen this year. But I would certainly not rule it out.
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