Arrow McLaren announced Monday that it has released David Malukas from its IndyCar team, citing his extended recovery timeline as the main reason.
The 22-year-old injured his wrist in a mountain biking accident back in February, and an initial six-week timeline was given for his return to racing.
His recovery has been slower than expected, however, and he has missed all the races to date in the 2024 season.
Malukas only recently had the pins removed in his hand, and has made comments suggesting that he would not be ready to race in two weeks for the Sonsio Grand Prix at the IMS road course.
“The past three months have been challenging,” said Malukas in the release. “‘”I felt privileged to have had the opportunity to drive for Arrow McLaren and regret that it never materialized.
“I would have loved to have continued representing the team and its partners going forward. They have been good, and I appreciate all they have done for me.
“I’ve done everything possible to speed up the rehab process—treatments, physiotherapy, strength training—but my recovery has taken longer than anticipated. Every injury is different, and every body heals at a different pace.
“I’ll turn my full attention to getting back to 100 percent and then prove that I am ready and able to compete to win.”
The team has called in Callum Ilott and Theo Pourchaire for the first part of the year to take Malukas’ place in the #6 entry, and is looking to have a more stable offering going forward.
The upcoming Indianapolis 500 is also likely a concern, as the team will want to have a solid arrangement in place for the most important race on the calendar.
Malukas now finds himself without a contract for his third IndyCar season, and has missed out on an opportunity to show his skills at one of the bigger teams in the paddock.
Arrow McLaren has not yet announced a full time replacement for Malukas, with news expected within the next week.
