Arrow McLaren announced on Tuesday that Team Principal Gavin Ward has left the team with immediate effect.
The separation was described as a mutual and strategic decision, with the two parting ways on apparent good terms.
Ward is considered to be a valuable resource in the IndyCar paddock, and he left Team Penske to join Arrow McLaren as it was building resources at the start of the 2023 season.
He worked alongside Tony Kanaan as he transitioned from driver to Special Advisor to Sporting Director, and led the team to multiple victories in 2024 with its star driver Pato O’Ward.
McLaren plans to continue developing its leadership structure and has invested in additional talent this off-season.
“I leave Arrow McLaren after two years developing a people-first culture set to topple the 20-year domination of IndyCar’s championship teams,” said Ward in the announcement.
“We’ve made major strides during my tenure. Our 2024 IndyCar season delivered the team’s most-ever race wins, and we came within two turns of victory in the Indianapolis 500.
“Arrow McLaren is positioned for further success – with a stable driver lineup, significant off-season recruitment and thoughtful organizational changes.
“I wish my former colleagues well and hope our work together leads to more wins on and off the track. I plan to spend some time at home with my wonderful wife and two daughters while I evaluate what’s next in my career.”
A replacement for the Team Principal position was not announced and it is not apparent if the team intends to hire a direct replacement immediately.
Arrow McLaren will field a trio of drivers for the 2025 season, with Pato O’Ward being joined by Nolan Siegel and Christian Lundgaard for the full schedule. Kyle Larson will also join the team for a second Indy 500 attempt in May.
