IndyCar not chasing other Formula 1 drivers after Fernando Alonso
The huge interest in Fernando Alonso's Indianapolis 500 deal will not prompt IndyCar to chase other Formula 1 stars, insists the American series' boss
Mark Miles, the CEO of Hulman & Company, IndyCar's parent company, was part of the discussions to facilitate Alonso's Indy 500 debut with Andretti Autosport in collaboration with McLaren and Honda.
Alonso's decision has generated substantial media coverage, and has drawn comparisons with how the CART Indycar World Series' profile rose when Nigel Mansell switched to it as reigning F1 champion in 1993.
But Miles says the circumstances of Alonso's deal are unique and unlikely to start a trend of F1/IndyCar crossovers.
"I don't think it's a strategy for us," he said.
"This happened in a unique set of circumstances in so many respects so we are not going to be following the grand prix series around and trying to poach drivers.
"I think more drivers will pay more attention to it and we'll see what happens but, while there may be points in their career where it makes sense, it's not a strategy [that IndyCar will pursue].
"It's happened with NASCAR as well, where a champion driver gets a chance to see how he can do in other championships, which I admire. It's a very courageous act."
Miles believes Alonso's Indy presence, which comes at the expense of the Monaco Grand Prix, will help F1's standing in America.
"We genuinely believe this is a win-win-win," he said.
"It's great for Fernando. His stock in the States and his recognition is up, as is Formula 1's.
"Everyone's heard of Formula 1 but we only have one race [in the US] at the moment and I'm sure they're trying as much as Alonso is in many respects to take advantage of that, and good for them.
"And for us, obviously, it creates a chance to get the attention of a lot more fans.
"I think we have been insular over the years and I think our racing is compelling so we expect to spend more time promoting the series around the world."
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