TJ13 reported some weeks ago of the possibility that Fernando Alonso might be called upon to perform some testing for the team in 2019, it is still unconfirmed if this will be the case.

Alonso did bring some speculation for this possibility after posting pictures of McLaren’s base in Woking, for possible briefings on the coming winter F1 testing. It is known for sure that the Spaniard had meetings regarding McLaren’s Indy500 project.

The McLaren MCL34 was launched yesterday amid speculation and rumour that the car would be radically different from its predecessor, and indeed other cars on the grid.

Obvious was the step change in design from McLaren’s 2017 and 2018 cars with some unique aero pieces on display, but rumours from team sources seemed to indicate that the Woking designers had found a loophole in the regulations with regards to the floor and/or diffuser areas.

It’s unlikely any such aero piece would be obvious on the show stand yesterday so it remains to be seen what it actually is, or whether McLaren is still susceptible to overpromising and underdelivering, even with their team member’s leaking info pre-season.

Yesterday McLaren did announce that “The MCL34 will make its debut as part of the test drives at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, the 18th-21st February and February 26th to March 1st. Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris will share the work on both test drives. ” with no mention of Alonso taking to the wheel, but as previously indicated by TJ13, the Spaniard would possibly perform filming day duties if he takes to the wheel of the new 2019 car.

What is likely however that Alonso will be in Spain and present at Barcelona during the 2nd test period with sponsor commitments in the city scheduled.

Alonso fans, watch this space.