MONTE CARLO, Monaco -- Twelve months ago Fernando Alonso was getting ready to race at his first Indy 500, but this year he is back in the familiar surroundings of Monte Carlo.
In his debut at the Brickyard Alonso looked like a contender for victory throughout the race weekend, but ultimately retired when his Honda engine blew with 20 laps remaining. Ironically, he was only taking part in the event because his Honda F1 engine's lack of performance meant a victory at any grand prix last year was nearly impossible, but this year a switch to Renault power has moved his McLaren team into the thick of the midfield battle.