Arrow McLaren has confirmed that David Malukas has undergone a successful surgery to repair torn ligaments and a dislocated left wrist, but the recovery time will stretch into the start of the 2024 IndyCar season.
The 22-year-old was injured over the weekend while mountain biking, and it was hoped that he would be able to recover in time to contest the full season, his first with Arrow McLaren.
The team revealed that his recovery will take closer to seven weeks, however, with the start of April being the best estimate for his return to racing action.
With the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg just over three weeks away, he will not be able to make his debut with the team as he had planned.
“I’m gutted this happened, especially so close to the season” said Malukas. “I feel horrible for the team who have worked so hard to prepare for our first season together.
“I will be working hard to get back on track as soon as I can. I can’t wait to go racing with the team in papaya.”
Arrow McLaren has begun the process of evaluating driver options for the #6 entry for St. Petersburg and also potentially for the $1 million challenge at the Thermal Club on March 24.
There are a couple drivers with experience in IndyCar that would be available, such as Callum Ilott and Conor Daly, but no announcements in that regard have been made yet.
“It’s just heartbreaking for David, of course, and our entire team,” said team principal Gavin Ward. “We’ve seen how much work he and this entire group has put into preparing for his first season in papaya. But it’s often how we recover from setbacks and adversity that defines us and our character.
“We will do everything we can to support David in his recovery and when he’s back on track the success will be all the sweeter.”
Malukas will watch from the sidelines for the first race of the 2024 IndyCar season, which takes place on March 10 on the streets of St. Petersburg.
