Nine degrees: McLaren's clever scheme to give Alonso an edge at Indy

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As Fernando Alonso enters the thick of his preparations for next month's Indy 500, McLaren has come up with a clever scheme to boost the Spaniard's chances at the Brickyard.

To succeed at Indy requires 'a very particular set of skills', both in terms of driving and race management, not to mention flawless team execution.

But teams are always seeking for that one little thing - technical or other - that will give a driver an edge over his competitors, a benefit that Indy emperor Roger Penske and his driver Mark Donohue once called the "unfair advantage".

Alonso admits Indy contender 'trickier to drive' after Texas test

With the help of the very astute Gil de Ferran, a man who won the Indy 500 with Penske in 2003, McLaren has concocted a canny system based on the Speedway's four banked corners.

To learn exactly what the 'nine degree' stratagem is all about, or why Alonso will only be turning left between now and May 26, check out the short video below.

At McLaren, there's no off position on the genius switch!

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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.