Tag: Arrow McLaren

McLaren Signs Pourchaire For Rest of 2024; Ilott Expected to Drive in 500

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From Arrow McLaren. His rookie oval test this week gave a strong hint. Callum Ilott is still expected to drive the car in the 500.

The release from the team:

ARROW McLAREN 

CONFIRMS POURCHAIRE FOR REMAINDER OF 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES SEASON, ABSENT INDIANAPOLIS 500

Théo Pourchaire will pilot the No. 6 SmartStop Chevrolet on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course

The Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team announced today that Théo Pourchaire will pilot the No. 6 SmartStop Chevrolet in the Sonsio Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course this weekend. Théo will then return to the track at the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix, where he will be set to pilot the No. 6 Chevrolet for the duration of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.

Théo made his inaugural INDYCAR appearances at Long Beach and Barber Motorsports Park, earning the ‘Biggest Mover’ title in his debut race with an eleventh-place finish.

The 2023 Formula 2 champion can now add ovals to his skillset after a successful test with the Arrow McLaren crew at World Wide Technology Raceway on May 6.

Today the No. 6 SmartStop Arrow McLaren Chevrolet livery will be revealed as it prepares to embark on its first of three on-track appearances across the 2024 season, also present on the streets of Toronto and Portland International Raceway.

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. (“SmartStop”), a self-managed and fully integrated self-
storage company, has been an Official Partner with Arrow McLaren since October 2022. The SmartStop livery is highlighted by a distinct light blue that pops in contrast to the iconic papaya, a color which draws a connection between each of the series McLaren Racing competes in. 

The team has not yet announced who will race in the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet for the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 but will make that confirmation in due course.

Gavin Ward, Team Principal, Arrow McLaren, said:

“We’re excited to continue working with Théo. He proved to be a quick learner, and we believe his skillset and learning mindset will support his development as he gets more comfortable racing in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Now, it’s about continuing to grow and turning those learnings into results alongside the No. 6 team.”

Théo Pourchaire, Driver, Arrow McLaren, said:  

“The NTT INDYCAR SERIES has some of the best racing in motorsport, and now I can say that with experience. I’m excited to take on this challenge with Arrow McLaren for the rest of the season. This is a special opportunity, and I am committed to learning and improving as we get on track each race weekend. I’ve enjoyed my first two races with the team, and I know we have plenty of potential in front of us. Of course, I would like to thank Zak, Gavin and Tony, as well as the Sauber F1 Team, for making this all possible.”

McLaren Releases Malukas

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Announcement from Arrow McLaren

David’s recovery timeline remains unclear

Arrow McLaren today announced that the team has released David Malukas for the remainder of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season due to him being unavailable for the entirety of the season to date, with no confirmed return date, as a result of a left wrist injury, which occurred February 11, in a mountain biking incident. 

The team has raced at four events with two different drivers, both who were new to the team following David’s incident and currently race in other series: Callum Ilott and Théo Pourchaire. 

David joined the team in September 2023 and was set to race his third NTT INDYCAR SERIES season with Arrow McLaren until this wrist injury sidelined him from races in St. Petersburg, The Thermal Club in Palm Springs, Long Beach and Barber Motorsports Park. 

Arrow McLaren is finalizing its driver assignments for the remainder of the 2024 season and will announce confirmations for upcoming races in due course.

David Malukas, Driver, said: 

“The past three months have been challenging. I felt privileged to have had the opportunity to drive for Arrow McLaren and regret that it never materialized. I would have loved to have continued representing the team and its partners going forward. They have been good, and I appreciate all they have done for me. 

“I’ve done everything possible to speed up the rehab process—treatments, physiotherapy, strength training—but my recovery has taken longer than anticipated. Every injury is different, and every body heals at a different pace. I’ll turn my full attention to getting back to 100 percent and then prove that I am ready and able to compete to win.” 

Pourchaire Stays in the 6 Car for Barber

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From Arrow McLaren:

The Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team announced today that Théo Pourchaire will pilot the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet at the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix on April 28 alongside Pato O’Ward and Alexander Rossi.

David Malukas continues to recover from a left wrist injury and surgery. Arrow McLaren will maintain their evaluation of David’s health and will share updates as appropriate.

Pourchaire Subs for Malukas at Long Beach

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As expected, F2 champion Theo Pourchaire will drive the number 6 car for Arrow McLaren at Long Beach as David Malukas continues his recovery from a mountain bike accident. The admits that Malukas’ injury is taking longer than expected.

The news release from the team:

THÉO POURCHAIRE TO PILOT NO. 6 ONSEMI ARROW McLAREN CHEVROLET AT LONG BEACH

“We’re excited to see what Théo can do on the track in Long Beach”

Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team logo

https://mclaren.bloomreach.io/cdn-cgi/image/format=webp,quality=80/delivery/resources/content/gallery/mclaren-racing/images/social-media-logos/vector-3.png

The Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team announced today Théo Pourchaire will race the No. 6 onsemi Arrow McLaren Chevrolet at the Grand Prix of Long Beach as David Malukas recovers from a left wrist injury and surgery.

Théo, a 20-year-old from Grasse, France, is set for his NTT INDYCAR SERIES debut with Arrow McLaren following a successful racing season in Europe, where he clinched the 2023 FIA Formula 2 Championship. He secured two wins and 10 podiums as he led his French-based team, ART Grand Prix, to their first Formula 2 title. Theo is the youngest driver to win races in both Formula 3 at age 16 (Austria in 2020) and then Formula 2 at 17 (Monaco in 2021).  

In addition to his championship, Théo was runner up in the series in 2022 and finished fifth in 2021.Théo also clinched a second-place finish in his sole FIA Formula 3 Championship campaign in 2020, following titles in the ADAC Formula 4 Championship and French F4 Junior Championship in 2019 and 2018, respectively.

This year, Théo has served as a test and reserve driver for the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber.

As David’s recovery timeline extends beyond the originally anticipated six weeks, the team will continue to evaluate his health with his medical care team. Confirmation on the driver for the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix will come in due course.

Gavin Ward, Team Principal, Arrow McLaren, said:  

“It’s a shame that David’s recovery is longer than we all originally anticipated. He’s been working with our team trainer very closely with what rehab and strength exercises are possible at this point, and the team’s been doing a great job in the meantime to work together through the changes they’ve had since his injury.

“Théo may be an unexpected driver in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES paddock this season, but we’re excited to see what he can do on the track in Long Beach and are thankful for Sauber in working with us to make it happen. He has a strong resume, especially for his young age, and he’s eager to work with us and put his driving to the test this weekend.”

Théo Pourchaire, Driver, said: 

“This is an amazing opportunity to drive with such a legendary team in a legendary motorsport series like the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. I’ve watched INDYCAR since I was a young kid, and the racing is incredible. I was thrilled to get the call from the team. I’m grateful that Zak, Gavin and Tony thought of me for this opportunity and for the team at Sauber to allow me to get on track at Long Beach. I am also sorry that the opportunity came as David continues to recover. It’s not going to be an easy task, but I’m ready for it.”

Arrow McLaren Tabs Ilott to Sub for Malukas at St. Pete

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Arrow McLaren released the following announcement this morning:

Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team today announces Callum Ilott to drive the No. 6 Chevrolet in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season opener in the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg as David Malukas recovers from surgery on his left wrist. 

Callum made 36 starts with Juncos Hollinger Racing over the last three seasons, including five top-10 finishes. He also has experience in Formula 1 as he was a test driver for Scuderia Ferrari and a reserve driver for Alfa Romeo in 2021.

The team continues to evaluate options for its driver lineup for future tests and races as David recovers. 

Notes

In a just completed news conference, Ilott seemed excited to be back in an Indycar. He said he would be open to doing more races should his schedule permit, but his first priority this season is WEC.

Ilott was the finishing driver and finished second in the opening WEC race in Qatar last weekend.

He said that the ay he left Indycar was “slightly premature,” and he is glad to have a chance with a competitive team. This chance with McLaren “felt right.”

The team did not give an update on Malukas’ recovery. He is expected to return at Long Beach, leaving an opening for the Thermal exhibition.

McLaren Extends O’Ward’s Contract

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Image from Arrow Mclaren Racing

From Arrow McLaren:

McLAREN RACING EXTENDS CONTRACT WITH PATO O’WARD

“McLaren has become home for me, and I am proud that I’ll be racing in papaya for a few more years at least”

Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team logo

https://mclaren.bloomreach.io/cdn-cgi/image/format=webp,quality=80/delivery/resources/content/gallery/mclaren-racing/images/social-media-logos/vector-3.png

McLaren Racing today announced that Pato O’Ward has signed a multiyear contract extension with the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team ahead of the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.

Pato, 24, is entering his fifth full season in the series, all with Arrow McLaren, and has established himself as one of the sport’s top drivers. Since joining the team, Pato has made 64 race starts and secured four wins, five poles, 20 podium finishes and three top-four finishes in the series championship.

Last season, Pato and the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet finished fourth in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship after claiming seven podiums, including four runner-up finishes. He also became eligible for his super license after reaching the points threshold following the season, leading to his appointment as a 2024 McLaren Racing F1 Reserve Driver. Pato will fulfill his reserve driver duties for the team following the INDYCAR season.

Pato remains one of the most popular figures in the series, driving significant fan engagement through social media and at-track activations throughout the country.

Gavin Ward, Team Principal, Arrow McLaren, said:

“This is a big day for the team and for Pato. It’s been great to see Pato and the team grow together. We’re thrilled to continue racing with him and I look forward to showing the racing world what we can achieve as a group. Having this done and dusted before the start of the season means the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet crew can go into the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg free from distraction and with one goal in mind: to execute each race weekend to the fullest of our potential.”

Pato O’Ward, Driver, No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, said:

“I couldn’t be more excited to sign this deal with the team. I have to thank Zak and Gavin, the partners and all who were involved in making this happen, especially before the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season starts so we can focus on racing and winning. McLaren has become home for me, and I am proud that I’ll be racing in papaya for a few more years at least.”

CALLUM ILOTT TO TEST WITH ARROW McLAREN IN HOMESTEAD HYBRID TEST

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From Arrow McLaren:

“Callum had a seat fit last week and will test with us in Homestead, and we’re looking forward to working with him this week”

Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team logo

https://mclaren.bloomreach.io/cdn-cgi/image/format=webp,quality=80/delivery/resources/content/gallery/mclaren-racing/images/social-media-logos/vector-3.png

Callum Ilott will join the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team in Homestead, Fla., this week to test with the team in a vacant seat following David Malukas’ wrist injury and operation on Feb. 13.

Pato O’Ward will be in the car on Feb. 20, Callum will test with the team February 21, and Alexander Rossi will round out the three-day hybrid test on Feb. 22.

The team is currently considering options for its reserve driver lineup for the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg the weekend of March 8-10. The team will announce who will pilot its third car for the race in due course.  

Gavin Ward, Team Principal, Arrow McLaren, said:  

“We all wish David a speedy recovery, and we’re working out some options with the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet crew in the meantime. Callum had a seat fit last week and will test with us in Homestead, and we’re looking forward to working with him this week. Then, hopefully we’ll be able to confirm our roster for St. Pete soon after.”  

Callum Ilott, Driver, said: 

“Obviously, I feel sorry for David and the team. It’s not easy to be in this position especially just ahead of the start of the season. I wish him the best and a speedy recovery. I’m glad I’m able to help out the team, and it’s a privilege to test this week with Arrow McLaren. I’m thankful they’re considering me for the opportunity.” 

Update-Malukas out Six Weeks Malukas Injury May Delay His Season Debut

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An update- Marshall Pruett reports that Davis Malukas will be out six as his left wrist heals. His first would be Long Beach April 21

Athletes gonna Athlete. Sometimes their need to challenge themselves results in an off-season mishap. Arrow McLaren driver David Malukas fractured his hand in a mountain biking accident and had surgery yesterday. The injury will likely keep him out of next week’s testing and the full grid test at Sebring the last week of February. It may also prevent him from starting the season at St. Pete the weekend of March 8-10.

I think he will be in the car for the season opener. Other drivers have driven with broken hands before. Jimmie Johnson fractured a bone in his hand in a practice crash at Long Beach in 2022 and still drove in the race.

The injury carries a bit more significance for Malukas since this is his first season with Arrow McLaren. The team has shown little tolerance for drivers who don’t meet their standards. Missing the season opener will put Malukas in a difficult spot in the season standings. He will need to win a race to make up for it.

How restrictive can teams be in restricting their drivers’ off-season activities? Many teams don’t allow drivers to race in some other series, and there have been restrictions on things like skydiving in some contracts. Will this incident lead to more restrictive contracts in the future?

I wish David a speedy recovery. He is one of the best interviews in the paddock, and a great guy. I as hoping this would be his breakout season with a strong team. It still may be, but we might have to wait until midseason to see him realize his potential

The First Signs of Spring

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The 2024 Indycar season takes another step forward this week. On Thursday the track build officially begins in St. Pete for the March 10 season opener. I continue to be amazed at how quickly the track is built and then torn down after the race. I will be on site to cover the event.

Another good sign last week was the Arrow McLaren livery presentations of their three 2024 cars.

The cars of Alexander Rossi, David Malukas, and Pato O’Ward

I like Rossi’s car the best. It has the throwback feel of the Marlboro McLaren F1 car. The white trim gives it a clean look.

Malukas’s car is too similar to Scott Dixon’s machine. It seems like all Indycar teams have to employ a certain combination each year, and we see a field full of nearly identical themes.

Pato’s car does not look different from the car he has run the last couple of years. i assume this a brand mandate, I don’t dislike it, I was just hoping for something a bit bolder.

Bumping At the 500

The entry list for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 could end up at 35 or 36.

In addition to the 27 full time teams, Andretti will field a car for Marco Andretti, and Arrow Mclaren is adding Kyle Larson. Ed Carpenter Racing brings in a third car for Christian Rasmussen. Abel Motorsports should return with R C Enerson. Dreyer and Reinbold with Don Cusick has announced Ryan Hunter-Reay and Conor Daly.

There is talk that Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing will have an entry for two-time 500 winner Takuma Sato.

A. J. Foyt Racing will decide by the end of February if they will run a third car for the 500, which would put the field at 35. There may be one other entry.

We won’t have to worry about guaranteed spots in 2024.