It's rookie test day for Fernando Alonso at Indy!

©AndrettiAutosport

Fernando Alonso gets his first taste of an Indycar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this afternoon as the McLaren driver gears up for his mandatory rookie test.

Andretti-Autosport team mate Marco Andretti is scheduled to roll out the #29 McLaren-Honda-Andretti Dallara for a brief 10-lap shakedown before Alonso gets behind the wheel.

"Marco's going to head out at 9am, weather permitting – it's going to be pretty cold overnight – basically shake the car down," AA team manager Rob Edwards told Motorsport.com.

"IndyCar rules allow him to do just 10 laps. Then we put Fernando in and make our way through the day.

"The intention is to actually try and pass the Rookie Orientation Practice in this test, and then during the ROP and Refreshers period on Monday 15 May, which runs from 12 noon to 2pm, he will be permitted two sets of tires to do the Refresher test.

"Every rookie is allowed one oval test before the practice week for the Indy 500, so that's what we're using in this first test."

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In addition to acquiring knowledge about all the necessary procedures at Indianapolis, the Rookie Orientation Practice program includes the crucial ability for a driver to gradually move up the average speed ladder, with 10 laps at 205-210mph, 15 laps at 210-215mph, and 15 laps over 215mph.

"Those speeds will be achievable with the downforce levels still relatively 'comfortable'," said Edwards.

"Obviously the idea is to get Fernando to a comfort level where he's just getting used to constantly driving at those speeds, so it doesn't make sense to get into a big trimming exercise on Day 1."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.