Brian Barnhart, A prominent IndyCar figure most recently of Andretti Autosport, has joined Arrow McLaren SP in an undisclosed role.
In a developing story out of Indianapolis, Brian Barnhart, former Vice President of IndyCar competition and two-time IndyCar race director, has joined Arrow McLaren SP in an undisclosed role.
On Tuesday, Team President Taylor Kiel resigned unexpectedly after two seasons in the role.
A well-known figure within the IndyCar paddock, Barnhart has served as the Director of Racing Operations at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. His role expanded upon the creation of the Indy Racing League, where he served as President from 2005-2007.
In 2017, Barnhardt became Team President of Harding Racing, a position he served for the duration of the team’s tenure. Upon absorption into Andretti Autosport, Barnhardt remained aboard as race strategist for Colton Herta. This past season, Barnhart served as team strategist for Alexander Rossi, leading the Californian to one victory (the Gallagher Grand Prix), three podiums, and five top fives en route to placing ninth in the final standings.
While McLaren CEO Zak Brown continues to finalize Arrow McLaren SP’s leadership for 2023, their momentum showcases the promise of achieving not only their dreams of overtaking Team Penske in the fight for the Astor Cup, but by becoming a serious threat in the fight for an Indianapolis 500 victory.
If plans come to fruition, two Americans, a Swede and a Mexican will walk through Gasoline Alley on the morning of May 28th, 2023, united as arguably the most talented lineup on the grid.
In any sport, the formula for success is the chemistry between competitor and coach. In the case of the 2023 IndyCar Series and Alexander Rossi moving over to Arrow McLaren SP, it leaves one to wonder if Brown figured:
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Featured Image Credit: Joe Skibinski/Penske Entertainment
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