Théo Pourchaire, F2 champion, will be taking the Arrow Mclaren seat for the remained of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.
Pourchaire will no longer be competing in Super Formula this season, in favour of the Arrow Mclaren IndyCar seat.
The French driver filled the Mclaren seat earlier this IndyCar season. Following the wrist injury of David Malukas and the unavailability of reserve driver, Callum Illot.
After a very successful debut in Long Beach, gaining the biggest movers’ title. All eyes were on Pourchaire. He also filled in at Alabama, and though he struggled more, he still held his own.
After Alabama, it was announced that David Malukas would not be returning to IndyCar this season, because of longer than anticipated recovery.
Today Mclaren has ended speculation over the seat, confirming that Pourchaire will be filling the seat for the rest of the season. With Callum Illot taking the seat for the Indy 500.
The F2 champion has been clear about his intentions on a formula one seat.
In a press conference before Alabama, he made it clear he ‘was still young,’ and that he had plenty of time. He also showed his interest in an IndyCar seat.
With PREMA coming into IndyCar next season and Mclaren still needing another driver next year. Théo Pourchaire is putting himself in a powerful position for next year’s driver market.
He also has the potential of the Stake/Audi seat, that currently has availability. Although there are rumoured offers to Carlos Sainz.
However, if Sainz chooses to take another seat, it makes sense that Stake’s eyes will go to the F2 champion, and Sauber junior.
The one IndyCar race Pourchaire will not be participating in is the Indy 500.
Despite his expressed desire to win the 500, with only one practice in an oval under his belt, the French driver understands why they want someone with more experience.
He admitted to The Race he was “A little disappointed,” but claimed being a spectator at the event would be just as fun. As well as an opportunity to learn.