Gavin Ward Parts Ways with Arrow McLaren
In a surprising turn of events, Gavin Ward has announced his departure from Arrow McLaren after two years with the renowned IndyCar team. The departure was described as a mutual decision reached between Ward and the executive leadership at Arrow McLaren, emphasizing the positive relationship between the departing Engineering Director and the team’s management.
Ward's tenure with Arrow McLaren began in 2022. Since joining, he played an instrumental role in transforming the team’s dynamics and achieving unprecedented success. Under his leadership, Arrow McLaren experienced a record-setting 2024 season, marking the most race wins in the team’s history. However, despite coming close, a victory at the iconic Indianapolis 500 remained elusive during Ward's time with the team.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, expressed his gratitude and admiration for Ward’s contributions, stating, "We've grown significantly from where we were when he joined the team in 2022, and he was a big part of that transformation." Indeed, Ward's impact on the team’s culture and competitiveness cannot be overstated. His departure leaves a significant void as Arrow McLaren looks to continue its ascent in the highly competitive world of IndyCar racing.
Ward, who holds a degree in automotive engineering from Oxford Brookes University in England, has an impressive track record in motorsports. He began his career with a local Formula Ford racing team, before spending nine successful years at Red Bull Racing in Formula 1. During his tenure, he was intrinsic to the team's formidable achievements, contributing to four championship titles and over 50 race victories. A highlight of his achievements was celebrating a winning constructor's trophy at the 2013 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, part of Red Bull Racing's dominant 1-2 finish.
Ward joined the IndyCar series in 2018 with Team Penske and spent nearly a year on the sidelines before joining Arrow McLaren. His influence in the series has been marked by a focus on developing a "people-first" culture, aimed at challenging the longstanding dominance of IndyCar's top teams.
Reflecting on his time with Arrow McLaren, Ward commented, "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." His sense of accomplishment is apparent, as is his optimism for whatever challenges the future may hold.
As for his next steps, Ward is taking a step back to enjoy 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 revealed, signaling a pause rather than a full stop in his illustrious career in motorsports.
In the wake of Ward's departure, Arrow McLaren is set to continue their growth trajectory with strategic leadership acquisitions, including notable figures like Tony Kanaan and Brian Barnhart. The team is eager to capitalize on the foundation Ward helped build as they aim for further success in the upcoming seasons.
Arrow McLaren’s driver lineup for the 2025 season will feature Pato O'Ward, Christian Lundgaard, and Nolan Siegel. Pato O'Ward was instrumental in the team's success last year with a season-high three race wins. Meanwhile, Siegel joined the team midway through the previous season and looks to make a significant impact in his first full campaign.
Gavin Ward’s departure from Arrow McLaren marks the end of a transformative era for the team. His influence and achievements echo through IndyCar as both a competitive force and a staunch advocate for progressive team culture. While his next endeavor remains unannounced, the impact of his work at Arrow McLaren will undoubtedly shape the team’s future endeavors, just as it has paved the way for Ward’s exciting career ahead.