The Arrow McLaren IndyCar team is set to get a first look at the driving skills and technical input of Callum Ilott, who will step in and participate in a test on behalf of the recently injured David Malukas. Ilott will join the team on Wednesday, February 21 as part of its rotation of drivers for this week’s test of the hybrid engine at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
“I understand the situation that David and the team are in,” Ilott said. “It’s challenging to be in this position, especially right before the start of the season. I wish him a speedy recovery and all the best. I’m grateful to be able to help the team, and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to test with Arrow McLaren this week. I appreciate them considering me for this role.”
The team’s decision to evaluate Ilott comes after Malukas suffered a cycling accident that required wrist surgery and a recovery period, preventing him from participating in the IndyCar season opener in St Petersburg on March 10. After the hybrid test this week, all teams will head to Sebring International Raceway next week for a two-day test where all full-time entries are expected to be in action.
With the potential for one or two openings for the 2025 season, the Arrow McLaren team was eager to learn more about Ilott through their strategic partnership with Juncos Hollinger Racing, where Ilott began his IndyCar journey late last year. However, due to Ilott’s departure from JHR, that opportunity disappeared until the situation with Malukas arose.
Due to the timing of the split with JHR, Ilott was unable to secure a paying position in IndyCar. As a result, he accepted a full-season offer to compete in a hybrid Porsche 963 prototype with the Jota Team Hertz program in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Ilott’s responsibilities in the WEC will increase this weekend as he is scheduled to test in Qatar at the official Prologue event from February 24-25.
Replacing Malukas in the Sebring test on February 26-27 would be challenging for Ilott due to his commitments with Jota. However, he may be selected to race for the team at St. Petersburg, which takes place one week after the WEC race in Qatar. The team will make a decision on the driver for the No. 6 Chevy at a later date.
“We all hope for David’s speedy recovery, and in the meantime, we’re exploring some options with the Arrow McLaren Chevrolet crew,” said team principal Gavin Ward. “Callum had a seat fitting last week and will test with us in Homestead, and we’re excited to collaborate with him this week. Then, hopefully, we’ll be able to confirm our lineup for St. Pete soon after.”
Source: racer.com
