Massa: Alonso may have second thoughts about Formula E

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To date Fernando Alonso has dismissed a move to Formula E, but his former Ferrari team mate Felipe Massa believes the Spaniard could reconsider his position in the future.

The all-electric series has reportedly gone out of its way to convince the Spaniard to join its ranks, with Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport claiming that Formula E CEO Alejandro Ajag had tried to lure Alonso with a massive $10 million incentive!

The two-time world champion has admitted that he's looking forward to a relatively quiet 2019 season as he recharges his own batteries after a difficult and disappointing period with McLaren.

Vandoorne sees 'steep learning curve' ahead in Formula E

But Massa believes Alonso could be tempted by a stint in Formula E in the not so distant future.

"He was thinking about IndyCar, but now I think Formula E may have a better chance of getting him," Massa told Spanish daily AS.

"The Indy 500 is one thing, but for the championship I think Fernando may look at Formula E. It may be in a year, but I would not be surprised if it was earlier."

Massa, who retired from F1 at the end of 2017, will line up on the FE grid when the season kicks off in Saudi Arabia in December, driving for the Monaco-based Venturi team.

The Brazilian will also be joined by Alonso's current McLaren team mate, Stoffel Vandoorne, who has also decided to give the burgeoning series a shot, concluding a deal with Mercedes-affiliate HWA.

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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.