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Fernando Alonso will test the McLaren 2019 Formula 1 car as part of his new role as "ambassador" of the team, following his decision not to run in F1 this season.
The two-time world champion joined McLaren in 2015 but chose to to leave the grand prize for 2019 after years of unconvincing machines and a desire to compete elsewhere.
Alonso had already been confirmed to compete for McLaren this year at Indianapolis 500, but his highly speculated involvement in the F1 team's testing program was also confirmed.
He will pilot "selected tests to support the development of the MCL34 and MCL35 for 2020," confirmed McLaren.
McLaren will have four official test days during the season. Two of them must be completed by novice drivers who have not participated in more than two grand prizes, but Alonso would be free to drive the other two days.
Alonso will also advise the drivers and engineers of the F1 team as part of a "vast" ambassador agreement.
"I said before I stopped racing in Formula 1 last year that I saw myself with McLaren for a long time, so I'm delighted with this new role and the ability to stay closely involved in the team that I feel like my spiritual home, "said Alonso.
"We of course have the 500 miles of Indianapolis in May, which I look forward to, but it is only the beginning of many things we can do together."
"I'm particularly passionate about developing young talent, whether it's with my own team or helping McLaren's new generation of Formula 1 drivers unleash their true potential.
"It's important for me and for the team, so it will be a particularly gratifying part of my role."
Alonso has a busy racing schedule alongside his role in the McLaren F1 and is attempting to win the Indy 500 and complete the unofficial triple crown of motorsport.
His Toyota teammates are leading the World Endurance Championship points after winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans last year.
He joins double world champion Mika Hakkinen as McLaren's official ambassador.
"For any racing team, the presence of a member of Fernando's class to provide support through his experience is invaluable," said McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown.
"Our drivers and engineers will appreciate his ideas and his point of view, while his stature and character will remain very attractive to our partners and fans."
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