MONACO - Fernando Alonso is set to run a new Honda engine in his McLaren car at this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.
McLaren Honda F1 Team's Spanish driver Fernando Alonso steers his car during the Formula One Russian Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom circuit on May 1, 2016
The move is part of his and the team's bid to deliver solid confirmation of their progress this year on a circuit where they are tipped to go well.
The two-time world champion Spaniard is hoping for a strong result in the points and the team have reportedly made their decision to avoid any reliability problems following his engine trouble in Spain.
The new engine will be Alonso's third out of a permitted total of five this year, but they have avoided using any performance tokens, according to close observers in the paddock.
Honda F1 boss Yusuke Hasegawa told reporters after the Spanish Grand Prix that they were being cautious – and strategic in their use of performance upgrades and tokens.
"We are developing all the time, but I need to decide the tactics about which Grands Prix we will have the upgrades… We have no concrete plan," he said.
McLaren chief Ron Dennis has claimed that his team will soon enjoy a resurgence of form and emerge as a leading power in the post-Mercedes era.
Alonso, winner of 32 Grands Prix, last celebrated a victory when he won his home Spanish Grand Prix for Ferrari in 2013.