Arrow McLaren has announced that Theo Pourchaire will race the team’s #6 entry in this weekend’s IndyCar round in Long Beach as David Malukas continues to recover from a left wrist injury.
The 20-year-old Sauber reserve F1 driver and 2023 FIA Formula 2 Champion will make his debut in the NTT IndyCar Series, but it won’t be the Frenchman’s first race weekend of the year, having taken part last month in the opening round of the Japanese Super Formula series to which he is committed this season.
But a lengthy break in the latter’s schedule was perfect timing for Arrow McLaren to draft in Pourchaire and substitute for Malukas.
“This is an amazing opportunity to drive with such a legendary team in a legendary motorsport series like the NTT IndyCar Series,” commented Pourchaire.
“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 [Brown, McLaren CEO], Gavin [Ward, team principal] and Tony [Kanaan, sporting director] thought of me for this opportunity and for the team at Sauber to allow me to get on track at Long Beach.
“I’m 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.”
As Arrow McLaren keeps a close eye on Malukas's recovery progress, which has stretched beyond the initial six-week estimate, they've refrained from locking in a driver for the upcoming race weekend at Barber Motorsports Park on April 26-28.
“It’s a shame that David’s recovery is longer than we all originally anticipated,” said team principal Ward.
“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.”
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