Alonso: Doing the 2020 Dakar would be an extreme step

The double F1 World Champion tested a Toyota Gazoo prepped Dakar machine, in March, prompting speculation he would compete in January's race in Saudi Arabia.

Asked by reporters, at an eSports Liberbak Challenge promotional event this week, when he would consider such an endeavour, Alonso replied, "I don't know, it's probably something I'll value and keep for the future."

"I don't know when it will happen, maybe in the long term. It's an attractive career and one of the most important in motorsport but at the same time it is the opposite of my way of driving and my qualities as a driver," added the 32-times grand prix winner.

While the former McLaren F1 driver enjoyed his test earlier this year, he explained, "I've never driven off-road or done any rallying, and doing the toughest event in the world would suddenly be an extreme step.

"For the future, I have a clear idea of ​​what I will do. I won't leave doors open or look for or hope someone gives me a call.

"I have always had the good fortune to choose where and when to drive. I will decide on what makes me happy, and for the immediate future I already have something in mind, which will be made public in due course."

A return to F1 with McLaren has been ruled out, while Alonso is adamant he will only return to the top flight with a team capable of winning races with immediate effect. Red Bull and Mercedes have put themselves out the equation with solid commitments to their drivers.

The only sliver of hope is that Sebastian Vettel calls it quits or goes on a sabbatical at the end of the season, which would leave a seat open, alongside Charles Leclerc, at Ferrari, which begs the question: Does the Scuderia want him back?

Meanwhile, desperation can trigger surprises and, at Maranello, they are starting to become desperate as their wayward ace Vettel struggles to lead the team as his shares plummet.

https://www.grandprix247.com/2019/03/27/alonso-everything-feels-incredible-in-dakar-winning-toyota/