Arrow McLaren Announces Driver Lineup for 2027 IndyCar Season
Arrow McLaren is making changes to its driver roster for the upcoming 2027 IndyCar season.
On Monday, the team revealed that Scott Dixon and Felix Rosenqvist will join current driver Pato O’Ward in a three-car full-season setup. Ryan Hunter-Reay, who won the Indianapolis 500 in 2014, is also set to join Arrow McLaren in May to participate in the 111th Indianapolis 500.
This strategic move aims to secure a win at the Indianapolis 500, completing McLaren Racing’s aspiration of achieving motorsport’s Triple Crown with victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Monaco Grand Prix. Historically, McLaren has already claimed victories at all three events during different years and is now looking for the Indianapolis 500 win during this “Papaya” era. Interestingly, McLaren has the opportunity to be the first team to win all three races in the same year as it returns to endurance racing next season.
Zak Brown, the CEO of McLaren Racing, spoke positively about the changes, suggesting that this lineup would enhance the team’s overall performance.
“Our IndyCar team is showing great momentum, and having Pato, Scott, Felix, and Ryan will boost every aspect of our program. We’re aiming not just for the championship but also for that Indianapolis 500 victory to secure the Triple Crown of our current era. These drivers bring significant experience and chemistry that will undoubtedly benefit the entire team,” Brown said.
He also took a moment to thank Christian Lundgaard and Nolan Siegel, who will exit the team after this season, appreciating their contributions to the team’s progress.
“Christian and Nolan’s efforts have been instrumental in our current trajectory, and we’re thankful for the energy they’ve brought since they joined us,” Brown remarked.
Dixon, a six-time IndyCar champion, expressed his enthusiasm about this new chapter in his storied career.
“Joining Arrow McLaren in 2027 is an exciting next step for me. It was a significant decision for my family and I, and I’m eager to contribute to Zac and Tony’s team. Being a New Zealander, it’s special to be part of Bruce McLaren’s legacy. His spirit and determination are deeply ingrained in our team, and I’m excited to carry that forward,” Dixon commented.
Rosenqvist, on the other hand, is returning to his former team after previously racing with Arrow McLaren from 2020 to 2023.
“I’m excited to come back to Arrow McLaren next season and reunite with Pato, Tony, Zac, and the familiar crew and engineers. A lot of familiar faces, and with Scott and Ryan joining us for the 500, we have a fantastic lineup. While we still have to finish this season strong, I’m eager to see what lies ahead for Arrow,” Rosenqvist said.
Notably, Rosenqvist is also the reigning Indy 500 champion.
Hunter-Reay, who also serves as Arrow McLaren’s sporting director, mentioned that he and the team have “unfinished business” at the Indianapolis 500, referring to a less-than-ideal finish last season where he placed 32nd after an early incident.
“I have unfinished business with the 500, and so does this team. We’re focused on Indy, and our main goal is to win the Indy 500. We have plenty of time to prepare for May 2027, racing alongside Pato, Scott, and Felix. Also, working full-time as Sporting Director presents a unique chance to influence our ambitious development plans for the upcoming season,” Hunter-Reay stated.
This reshuffle has positioned Lundgaard as a key free agent in IndyCar. He recently secured pole position at the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio, finishing second behind O’Ward and currently ranks third in the IndyCar standings, trailing Alex Palou by a mere 65 points.
The series will next head to Nashville for the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix.
