McLaren Racing has officially taken full ownership of its IndyCar team, completing a buyout of former owners Sam Schmidt and Ric Peterson. This move solidifies McLaren’s position as a standalone force in the NTT IndyCar Series, ending the shared ownership structure that began in 2020.
The buyout marks the culmination of a gradual transition. McLaren first entered the partnership with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports in 2020, rebranding the team as Arrow McLaren SP. By 2021, McLaren increased its stake to 75%, signaling a long-term commitment to the series. Now, with 100% ownership, McLaren is firmly in the driver’s seat as it continues to expand its global motorsport presence.
A New Chapter for McLaren IndyCar
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown praised the contributions of Schmidt and Peterson, who have been instrumental in building the team’s foundation.
“Sam Schmidt and Ric Peterson have been incredible partners, and their legacy in IndyCar is undeniable,” Brown said. “With this new chapter, McLaren is fully committed to growing our presence in IndyCar and competing at the highest level.”
Sam Schmidt and Ric Peterson, who initially joined forces to form Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, leave behind a legacy that includes multiple race wins and a reputation for fostering talent. Their team became a consistent contender in IndyCar, making McLaren’s partnership a natural evolution.
Schmidt expressed pride in what the partnership achieved:
“It’s been an honor to work alongside McLaren and witness the team’s growth. I’m excited to see how they continue to build on the foundation we’ve created.”
McLaren’s Growing IndyCar Ambitions
Since entering IndyCar, McLaren has been aggressive in elevating its status within the series. The team expanded to a three-car operation in 2023 and has invested heavily in personnel, technology, and infrastructure. With drivers like Pato O’Ward, Alexander Rossi, and Felix Rosenqvist leading the charge, Arrow McLaren has positioned itself as a perennial contender.
The buyout also strengthens McLaren’s ability to align its IndyCar operations with its Formula 1 and Extreme E programs, creating synergy across all its racing platforms.
Looking Ahead
With full ownership, McLaren now has complete control over its IndyCar strategy and future direction. The team aims to build on its recent success, including podium finishes and competitive showings at the iconic Indianapolis 500.
As McLaren doubles down on its IndyCar ambitions, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how this fully independent team continues to evolve.
The question now is whether McLaren can translate its deep resources and global motorsport pedigree into sustained dominance in the highly competitive world of IndyCar racing.
Stay tuned as McLaren begins this exciting new chapter, with eyes firmly set on winning championships and cementing its legacy in the series.
