Theo Pourchaire Filling In for David Malukas at Long Beach

Theo Pourchaire will make his NTT IndyCar Series debut at the Streets of Long Beach for Arrow McLaren, the team announced April 18.

Pourchaire will drive the No. 6.

The start comes amid the continued absence of David Malukas, who is recovering from a left wrist injury.

Pourchaire comes to IndyCar following a successful 2023 campaign in Europe, where he picked up the 2023 FIA Formula 2 championship. The 20-year-old Frenchman scored two wins and 10 podiums for ART Grand Prix on his way to the title.

“This is an amazing opportunity to drive with such a legendary team in a legendary motorsport series like the NTT IndyCar Series,” Pourchaire said in a team release. “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.”

“It’s a shame that David’s recovery is longer than we all originally anticipated,” Team Principal Gavin Ward said. “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.

“Theo 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.”