Jean Alesi is set to make a return to competitive motorsport next year when he joins Lotus to contest the 96th running of the world famous Indy 500 race.

Alesi, 47, is a veteran of Formula 1, with 201 race starts and 1 win to name in his 12 year career, but has yet to compete in oval racing. Since retiring from F1 Alesi has competed in various other series including DTM and the Le Mans Series – including a 4th place in class in the 2010 Le Mans 24 hour race.

In January 2011 Alesi was announced by Lotus Renault GP as an ambassador for the team and has been working both with them and Group Lotus for promotion activities and in the development and testing of the Lotus T125 single seater.

Commenting on the announcement Jean Alesi said: “I’m thrilled that Lotus has given me the opportunity to compete in such a world famous race. It’s going to be a very special experience for me but I also know that I have a lot of hard work ahead. I’m very focused on the task I’m facing – I’m taking my training very seriously, I have some amazing support on this front from a ‘comeback’ expert and of course I will be testing extensively. I’m really excited about the race.”

You can read the full story on the Lotus Car website, or join the discussion on our forum.

Follow