Change at Arrow McLaren: Gavin Ward's Departure
In a decided shift within the realm of IndyCar racing, Gavin Ward has announced his departure from Arrow McLaren after a significant two-year stint with the team. Ward and Arrow McLaren’s executive leadership reached a mutual agreement regarding his exit, marking an amicable conclusion to his tenure.
Ward, who joined the team in 2022 after a successful career at Red Bull Racing in Formula 1, played a pivotal role in transforming Arrow McLaren into a formidable competitor in the IndyCar series. “We've grown significantly from where we were when he joined the team in 2022, and he was a big part of that transformation,” explained Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren. Under his leadership, Arrow McLaren witnessed a season to remember in 2024, achieving the most race wins in its history, while narrowly missing out on a coveted victory at the Indianapolis 500.
Ward rose through the ranks of motorsport, having studied automotive engineering at Oxford Brookes University in England. He initially cut his teeth in the industry with a local Formula Ford racing team before making his mark at Red Bull Racing. His nine-year tenure with the Formula 1 powerhouse saw him contributing to four championship titles and over 50 victories, including celebrating a winning constructor’s trophy at the 2013 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in Red Bull's impressive 1-2 finish. Those years solidified his reputation and expertise in motorsport engineering and management.
In 2018, Ward transitioned to the IndyCar Series with Team Penske. However, upon his decision to join Arrow McLaren, he faced a nearly year-long waiting period before he could assume his new role. Ward’s impact was substantial, as seen in last year's performance when Arrow McLaren clinched a season-high of three races, driven by star racer Pato O’Ward.
Ward’s departure, however, doesn’t signify a halt in Arrow McLaren's ambitious trajectory. The team is set on continuing its ascent with strategic leadership acquisitions such as Tony Kanaan and Brian Barnhart. Zak Brown expressed confidence in Arrow McLaren’s future, emphasizing that the foundations laid by Ward will propel the team forward.
Reflecting on his time with Arrow McLaren, Ward remarked, “I leave Arrow McLaren after two years developing a people-first culture set to topple the 20-year domination of IndyCar's championship teams. We've made major strides during my tenure.”
Ward now looks forward to evaluating future career opportunities while spending more time with his family. “I plan to spend time with my wife and two daughters while I evaluate what's next in my career,” he stated, illustrating a desire to balance personal and professional commitments moving forward.
As Arrow McLaren gears up for the 2025 season, their roster boasts talent with drivers Pato O'Ward, Christian Lundgaard, and Nolan Siegel. Siegel, who joined midway through the previous season, adds a refreshed dynamic to the team, poised to spearhead new victories under the existing and incoming leadership.
Gavin Ward's exit marks a new chapter for both him and Arrow McLaren. As the team embraces change, they remain steadfast in their vision to challenge and overcome the longstanding champions of IndyCar’s elite. Meanwhile, Ward's next move is anticipated with considerable interest, likely harboring the potential to influence yet another racing team in the world of motorsport, much like he did with Arrow McLaren.