Gutierrez wants Indy 500 chance

IndyCar's new kid on the block Esteban Gutierrez would welcome the opportunity to compete in the Indy 500 after closely following Fernando Alonso's exploits last Sunday.

The former Sauber and Haas driver is making his IndyCar debut this weekend in Detroit with Dale Coyne Racing, replacing the injured Sebastien Bourdais.

The Mexican, who raced in Formula E earlier this year, is on a new learning curve, both in terms of machinery and venues, but Gutierrez feels honored to join the IndyCar community.

"It’s an honor to represent Mexico now in IndyCar," said Gutierrez.

“It’s a pleasure to be here in IndyCar with this family. Everything came (together) very quickly.

"From the first time I received a call from Dale (Coyne), I said I didn’t think about it twice. I really wanted to take this chance and I feel very grateful for it, to have this opportunity.

Andretti: 'Alonso is at his peak and wasting his time'

"Dale Coyne is a great place to start, and I’m grateful to be there with them."

"My approach this weekend is to learn," added the 25-year-old.

"So, I’ll take it step by step very progressively, no mistakes, just enjoying the experience and the speed will come naturally."

Asked whether he would rather be in Monaco of Indianapolis when May 2018 comes around, the Mexican paused for a moment before delivering his response.

"That’s a really good question," he smiled.

"I would love to try the Indy 500. I watched the race and it’s a real exciting race. It’s pure driving, pure racing.

"It requires so many factors. I think what Fernando (Alonso) experienced, I know Fernando very well, so I could see the smile on his face all the time, so I could realize that it is something I have to try."

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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.