ARROW MCLAREN POISED FOR A BREAKOUT
There are a number of things to salivate over when it comes to the Indycar Series in 2024, but the one that stands out is Arrow Mclaren.
Despite not producing a win last season, the team was a thorn in the side of the longestablished juggernauts of Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske. That form resulted in Pato O’ward claiming seven podiums and being in the fight for the win in the majority of the 17 rounds. The full-send mentality and outspoken nature have already established the Mexican as a fan favourite, and he continues to refine his racecraft into championship mettle.
Considering 2023 was the first year under team principal Gavin Ward, and featured an expansion to a third car and a 40% increase in staff (many without prior Indycar experience), there’s reason for optimism in the days ahead. Alexander Rossi is going into his second year with the team, and showed pace that drew flashbacks of a time when he was a regular contender.
The wildcard is David Malukas, who comes into the squad after spending his first two seasons with Dale Coyne Racing (DCR) in the seat that reigning champion Alex Palou was expected – but rejected – to take over. When comparing those two drivers’ respective first seasons at DCR, where Palou also drove in 2020 prior to joining Ganassi, they are matched on podiums (one) and top 10s (three), but Malukas has the better finish with a runner-up at Gateway – and both finished 16th in the standings.
The championship has been won by either the Andretti team, Chip Ganassi Racing or Team Penske every year since 2003, but Arrow Mclaren looks poised to change that in the near future.