Despite its predictability F1 still the place to be for Alonso

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Fernando Alonso says F1 will likely remain unfinished business at the end of this season, denying he is getting board of Grand Prix racing.

Speculation is mounting in the paddock that the Spaniard could call it a day at the end of 2018, tired of his state of affairs and his current inability to fight at the front. Indeed, the Spaniard's demeanor of late appears to point to lassitude creeping in.

Alonso denies however the signs perceived from the outside.

"No, I'm not bored," the McLaren driver said in Montreal on the eve of milestone 300th Grand Prix.

"Formula 1 is the top class and we all dreamed of being here when we started in karting.

"The truth is that in recent years, the results have become predictable. Canada is only the seventh race of 21, but we know perfectly well what will happen in the next 14. That's sad for the sport."

Alonso reaches 'crazy' 300-race milestone

While right, Alonso's beef with the sport's predictability is perhaps a bit surprising for a man heading to Le Mans next week, where Toyota's win is anything but unpredictable.

The two-time world champion says he signed a multi-year contract with McLaren when he renewed his allegiance with the Woking-based outfit last year, a deal that could perhaps include another foray into IndyCar, to the detriment of F1.

"Last year I signed a multi-year contract," he said.

"I know the team is considering many different options, since the North American market is important for McLaren. Let's see how events will develop."

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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.