Arrow McLaren has announced the departure of team principal Gavin Ward, marking the end of his tenure with the IndyCar organization after the 2023 and 2024 seasons. According to a statement released by the team, the decision was described as “mutual and strategic,” signaling a planned and collaborative transition.
Ward joined Arrow McLaren in mid-2022, initially serving as Racing Director before being elevated to team principal ahead of the 2023 season. His promotion reflected McLaren’s commitment to bolstering its IndyCar program, with Ward playing a pivotal role in guiding the team during a period of expansion and elevated expectations. Under his leadership, Arrow McLaren solidified itself as a strong contender in the highly competitive NTT IndyCar Series.
A Season of Growth and Challenges
During Ward’s time as team principal, Arrow McLaren experienced both growth and challenges. The team expanded to three full-time entries in 2023, adding Alexander Rossi to the driver lineup alongside Pato O’Ward and Felix Rosenqvist. McLaren demonstrated impressive speed and consistency throughout the season, with O’Ward frequently contending for victories and podiums.
However, the team also faced challenges, including stiff competition from series giants like Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske. While Arrow McLaren made strides in qualifying performances and race pace, converting speed into race wins remained elusive, leaving room for further development.
Strategic Transition
In their statement, Arrow McLaren emphasized the strategic nature of Ward’s departure, though they did not specify the reasons behind the decision. It is unclear whether Ward will remain in motorsports or transition to another role within the industry.
Arrow McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown expressed gratitude for Ward’s contributions, stating, “Gavin has been instrumental in advancing our IndyCar program. We wish him the best in his next chapter.”
The team is expected to announce a successor to the role of team principal in the coming weeks, as preparations for the 2025 IndyCar season intensify.
Ward’s Legacy at Arrow McLaren
Ward’s departure marks the end of an era that began with high ambitions and a focus on competing at the highest level of IndyCar racing. His technical expertise, cultivated during his years with Red Bull Racing in Formula 1 and Team Penske in IndyCar, helped lay a solid foundation for Arrow McLaren’s growth.
As the team looks ahead to the future, it remains committed to achieving its long-term goal of contending for IndyCar championships and the prestigious Indianapolis 500.
The motorsports community will now watch closely to see where Gavin Ward lands next, as his departure leaves a significant void in Arrow McLaren’s leadership.
