The 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season has just passed the halfway mark, and with that in mind, here at Paddock Eye thought we would take another look at what might happen with the driver market,
Arrow McLaren is set to take over the Andretti Autosport race shop in 2025, allowing them to expand to a four-car full-time operation. In 2024, the team will run a fourth car for the Indianapolis 500, with Kyle Larson competing in his first Indy 500.
Paddock Eye understands that team owner Chip Ganassi is keen to retain the services of Alex Palou, who currently leads the championship by 74 points. However, Palou has a valid contract with Arrow McLaren, so we will see what happens over the next few weeks and months.
It will also be interesting to see what Marcus Armstrong does next season. Paddock Eye understands that the New Zealander is expected to run an oval test later in the season.
Andretti Autosport recently renewed the contract of Colton Herta, while Kyle Kirkwood has a long-term contract with the team. Romain Grosjean and Devlin DeFrancesco are expected to remain on the team.
Chip Ganassi Racing has a predicament with just Scott Dixon and Marcus Armstrong under contract, and Paddock Eye understands that the 2022 Indianapolis 500 winner.is understood to want to leave Ganassi. It will be interesting to see if he does leave the team.
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing is expected to hold on to Graham Rahal, Christian Lundgaard, and Jack Harvey. Callum Ilott will be a strong contender to take over the No.20 ECR Chevrolet, having run extremely well this season, but it will be interesting to see whether or not he stayed with Juncos Hollinger Racing or moves somewhere else.
Team Penske will retain Josef Newgarden, Scott McLaughlin and Will Power. Over at Meyer Shank Racing it will be interesting to see what happens with Helio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud.
AJ Foyt Racing will have Benjamin Pedersen and Santino Ferrucci for next season.