Fernando Alonso calls 1st Indy 500 'one of the best experiences of my career'

Although he was forced to exit Sunday's race on the 179th lap due to engine trouble, it's safe to say that Fernando Alonso's Indy 500 debut went very well.

The two-time Formula One champion, and 35-year-old Indy 500 rookie, was the focus ahead, during, and after the race. The acclaimed Spaniard, widely regarded as one of the best Formula One drivers ever, performed admirably in his first taste of the Indy and didn't rule out a return in the future.

"I felt the noise, the engine friction, I backed off and saw the smoke. It's a shame, I thought we deserved to finish the race and experience the end. Who knows which position we could be," Alonso said, according to the Guardian's Tom Lutz.

"I mean the whole day has been a very nice experience. The racing was fun, it was nice. I think the performance was good, we were leading the race. It was a nice surprise to be with the best in oval racing and be competitive. Obviously I feel competitive, If I come back, it will be easier the second time. One of the best experiences of my career."

Alonso held the lead several times throughout the day but unfortunately, his chase at the title was cut short with only 21 laps left to go. Ahead of the race, Alonso's participation drew the attention of many who follow the sport.

"I think having Fernando Alonso, who has a full-time Formula One ride and misses Monaco to come run the Indy 500, we would argue it's the most important race in the world, it has benefited us," circuit chairman Doug Boles said last Wednesday, according to ESPN's Nate Saunders. "It has benefited us in terms of the buzz. Our younger drivers grew up watching Fernando Alonso."