Formula 1

Fernando Alonso's Honda engine smoking ahead of Indy 500 qualifying

Published May. 21, 2017 3:35 p.m. ET

Samuel Reiman

Fernando Alonso has had to undergo an engine change on his McLaren Honda ahead of qualifying.

The difference is that this is in IndyCar.

Alonso had had no reported engine problems on his No. 29 McLaren/Andretti Autosport Honda this week but, following Saturday’s practice session in which he set the fastest average speed at 231.317 mph, videos on social media showed smoke coming out of Alonso’s car in the garage. The engine was changed as a precaution.

Alonso’s team is working hard to get his engine changed ahead of Pole Day qualifying. He qualified in the Fast Nine on Saturday, and hopes to fight for positions 1-9 later on at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Alonso will not have to undergo any penalties as long as the engine is changed in time.

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