Lotus to confirm Alesi for 2012 Indy 500

Group Lotus will announce on Friday that Jean Alesi is to contest the fabled Indy 500 next year.

Frenchman Alesi, a veteran of more than 200 grands prix, is already a brand ambassador for the sports car maker, the Renault title sponsor.

And the 47-year-old will confirm his Indianapolis drive at a press conference on Friday, according to the Swiss newspaper Blick.

"A dangerous ride for the former Ferrari and Sauber star. Good luck!" wrote veteran correspondent Roger Benoit.