Speculation is rampant in the IndyCar paddock about driver free agency following injuries and contract expirations. David Malukas’s ongoing wrist injury has cast doubt on his future at Arrow McLaren, while two-time champion Josef Newgarden, Alexander Rossi, Christian Lundgaard, Rinus VeeKay, and others face contract negotiations. McLaren, with potentially two seats to fill, is at the center of the free agency buzz, along with Rahal Letterman Lanigan and Ed Carpenter Racing.
Theo Pourchaire, the reigning Formula 2 champion, will continue to race for Arrow McLaren SP in the IndyCar Series at Barber Motorsports Park. Pourchaire made his IndyCar debut with the team at the Streets of Long Beach, where he finished 11th. He will substitute for David Malukas, who is recovering from a left wrist injury. Pourchaire’s performance in Long Beach impressed team principal Gavin Ward, who praised his enthusiasm and progress. Pourchaire’s contract includes two races, with the Barber Motorsports Park round dependent on Malukas’ health.
Theo Pourchaire, the reigning Formula 2 champion, will continue to substitute for David Malukas in the IndyCar Series at Barber Motorsports Park next weekend. Pourchaire made his IndyCar debut on the Streets of Long Beach last weekend, where he started 22nd and finished a respectable 11th for Arrow McLaren. The team had initially relied on Callum Ilott as a stand-in for Malukas, but a scheduling conflict with the World Endurance Championship prevented him from running Long Beach. Pourchaire, a reserve and test driver for Sauber’s Formula 1 team, proved to be an impressive performer at Long Beach, and has been praised by team principal Gavin Ward for his enthusiasm and quick adaptation. While Malukas continues to recover from wrist surgery, Pourchaire will be given the opportunity to extend his time in IndyCar at the scenic 2.3-mile, 17-turn natural terrain road course in Birmingham, Alabama.
