Theo Pourchaire to make IndyCar debut with Arrow McLaren at Long Beach

FIA Formula 2 champion Theo Pourchaire will make his IndyCar debut at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.

The Frenchman will drive the No. 6 Arrow McLaren in California, replacing the injured David Malukas, who continues to recover from a dislocated wrist and torn ligaments.

Pourchaire enjoyed a superb junior career, which culminated in winning the FIA F2 title last year in Abu Dhabi for ART.

The 20-year-old  was competitive from the beginning of his career racing cars, finishing third in the French F4 Championship in 2018.

He went on to race in FIA F3 two years later and narrowly missed out on the championship in a three-way duel at Mugello against current F1 drivers Logan Sargeant and eventual champion Oscar Piastri.

 Pourchaire is delighted to make his IndyCar debut with Arrow McLaren. 

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

"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.”

Arrow McLaren has enjoyed a competitive start to the season, with Mexican driver Pato O'Ward finishing second at the season opener at St. Petersburg.

The non-championship $1 Million Challenge at The Thermal Club proved to be more difficult, with none of the three McLarens scoring a top-five finish.

Team Principal Gavin Ward is eagerly anticipating seeing Pourchaire drive on the streets of Long Beach.

“It’s a shame that David’s recovery is longer than we all originally anticipated," 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.

"Théo 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.”