Formula 1 Racing

McLaren releases Malukas from contract after missing opening races · RaceFans

Support RaceFans when you shop with Amazon

McLaren has released David Malukas from his contract to race for them after he failed to participate in the first three rounds of the IndyCar championship.

Malukas injured his right wrist in a cycling accident three months ago. The team originally hoped he would be able to return to the cockpit after the season-opening round in St Petersburg on March 10th.

“The past three months have been challenging,” he admitted. “I felt privileged to have had the opportunity to drive for Arrow McLaren and regret that it never materialised.

“I would have loved to have continued representing the team and its partners going forward. They have been good, and I appreciate all they have done for me.”

He was due to start his third season in IndyCar with McLaren. “I’ve done everything possible to speed up the rehab process,” said Malukas. “Treatments, physiotherapy, strength training. But my recovery has taken longer than anticipated.

“Every injury is different, and every body heals at a different pace. I’ll turn my full attention to getting back to 100 percent and then prove that I am ready and able to compete to win.”

McLaren signed Malukas from Coyne at the end of last year when Alex Palou decided not to join the team this year.

Former Juncos Hollinger IndyCar driver Callum Ilott originally took over Malukas’ seat in St Petersburg and the non-championship event at The Thermal Club. As he was unable to drive in Long Beach due to a clashing World Endurance Championship round, Theo Pourchaire took over for that race and last weekend’s round at Barber Motorsports Park.

McLaren is yet to confirm who will take over their their seat alongside Pato O’Ward and Alexander Rossi. The team said in a statement they are “finalising driver assignments for the remainder of the 2024 season and will announce confirmations for upcoming races in due course.”

Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and go ad-free

IndyCar

Browse all IndyCar articles

Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at RaceFans…