The McLaren Racing Formula One Team announced on Thursday that 2021 NTT IndyCar Series champion Alex Palou of Chip Ganassi Racing will serve as the team’s reserve driver for the 2023 Formula One season and will attend all races that do not interfere with his NTT IndyCar Series commitments.
Speaking about the news, Palou commented saying:
“I’m excited to be part of the McLaren team as one of their reserve drivers in 2023. I’ve been behind the wheel of both the MCL35M and MCL36 and it has been a great experience, so I can’t wait for the involvement with next year’s car. I look forward to continuing my development as a driver and I appreciate the trust McLaren have in me with this new role next year.”
McLaren Racing F1 Team Principal Andreas Seidl commented on the announcement saying:
“The team are pleased to have Alex on board as one of our reserve drivers for next season. He impressed with his FP1 session in Austin and his driver development tests this year. He has many notable motorsports achievements so far, particularly the 2021 INDYCAR championship title so it’s brilliant to be able to expand his role in the team and we look forward to working more closely with him.”