Fernando Alonso says he has “unfinished business” with McLaren in Formula 1 as the decision over his future in the sport edges closer.
Alonso initially joined McLaren for 2007, as reigning double World Champion, and battled for the title, taking four wins, but departed at the end of the campaign after his relationship with the team deteriorated.
Following spells with Renault and Ferrari, Alonso rejoined McLaren for 2015 amid its reunion with Honda, but the partnership has been plagued by a lack of reliability and performance, restricting the Spaniard to a best race finish of fifth.
Alonso, in the final year of his contract, has frequently emphasised that he will not take a decision on his future until September or October, with his priority to win a third world title.
In an interview with CNN, Alonso explained that he is “very open” and that he “hasn’t made a decision yet”, commenting that "I’m talking to McLaren, of course, as it’s my team and I think we have unfinished business together to win in Formula 1.”
On what he needs to happen for him to stay at McLaren, Alonso said: “[To know] how competitive we will be, everyone will have their opinion of what we need to be competitive.
“I have mine, I will not share now! [But] If that happens I will consider for sure to say and win with McLaren.
“Formula 1 is still my priority, it's my life, and winning the world championship is what I'm hoping [for].
"If I don't see any clear project that will allow me to fight for the win I will look outside F1 – but that's maybe for November [or] December.
“I will try all the possibilities before that."
Alonso also reflected on his exploits at the Indianapolis 500, labelling a “magic” sensation at being back in a car capable of challenging for victory.
“I went to Indianapolis and I had that feeling again that I can win this race. The feeling that you could win that race was special,” he said.
“When I jump in the car, I put my legs inside the cockpit, the mechanics put the belts on.
“[I’m thinking that] when I take the belts off and I pull myself out of the car maybe I am the winner of this race – I was thinking that in this moment. That feeling was magic.”
