Callum Ilott will replace injured David Malukas at Arrow McLaren’s preseason test later this week
Callum Ilott will provide the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team a preview of his driving abilities and technical analysis in his first test with the team as a replacement driver for the injured David Malukas.
The Arrow McLaren IndyCar team is scheduled to take part in a three-day test of its hybrid power unit and Ilott will take the wheel on the test’s second day.
The test which is scheduled to take place at Homestead-Miami Speedway will provide Ilott an opportunity to get acquainted with the car and the team in the event that he is called up to drive the #6 entry in the season opener.
Ilott underwent a seat fit with Arrow McLaren last week and will join Pato O’Ward and Alexander Rossi at the test.
This comes after new McLaren signing Malukas fell off his bike last week and dislocated his left wrist. He will likely be sidelined for the season’s opening rounds as it gets underway on March 10 at St Petersburg as doctors estimate his recovery time at six to seven weeks.
“Obviously, I feel sorry for David [Malukas] and the team,” said Ilott ahead of his test. “It’s not easy to be in this position especially just ahead of the start of the season. I wish him the best and a speedy recovery.
“I’m glad I’m able to help out the team, and it’s a privilege to test this week with Arrow McLaren. I’m thankful they’re considering me for the opportunity.”
Although Ilott’s drive at St. Petersburg is still up in the air, it currently appears all but certain.
“We all wish David a speedy recovery, and we’re working out some options with the #6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet crew in the meantime,” said Team Principal Gavin Ward.
“Callum had a seat fit last week and will test with us in Homestead, and we’re looking forward to working with him this week.
“Then, hopefully we’ll be able to confirm our roster for St. Pete soon after.”
Ilott has raced in IndyCar with Juncos Hollinger for the last two years but lost his seat to Romain Grosjean as the team concluded the previous season with a strategic alliance with McLaren.
The 25-year-old British driver signed a deal to race in the 2024 WEC with the Jota Sport Hypercar; however, his schedule is now open for St. Pete and The Thermal Club’s $1 million challenge should the team request that he fill in for that event as well.
