Alex Palou will leave Chip Ganassi Racing at the end of the season and opt for McLaren. The choice of the reigning IndyCar champion is at odds with the press release issued earlier by his team.
Chip Ganassi Racing initially announced that Palou’s contract would be extended, meaning he would drive for the team through 2023. The press release contains an enthusiastic response from Palou, but according to the Spaniard, it does not come from him.
“I have not approved that press release and I have not made those statements. As I recently informed CGR, for personal reasons I do not intend to stay with the team after 2022,” 25-year-old Palou responds. Twitter.
Hours after Chip Ganassi Racing’s report, McLaren announced that Palou will be part of its Formula 1 testing program alongside IndyCar drivers Colton Herta and Pato O’Ward. The team does not specify in which series Palou will drive.
Alex Palou in action in the IndyCar.
Alex Palou in action in the IndyCar. Photo: Getty Images
‘See which doors open’
“I am very happy to be on the driver’s list for such an iconic team as McLaren,” Palou said with joy. “I hope to show what I can do behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car and then see which doors open.”
“Apart from the unfortunate announcement, I have a lot of respect for the CGR team. I look forward to finishing this season strong together,” concludes Palou.
After nine races, Palou is fourth in IndyCar, 35 points behind teammate Marcus Ericsson. The season has eight more races and continues next weekend in Toronto.