McLaren announce signing of six-time IndyCar champion in new driver line-up

McLaren has announced the signing of six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon after he confirmed he was leaving Chip Ganassi.

New Zealander Dixon will leave CGR at the end of the 2026 season after a long association, stretching back to 2003 in which time he has claimed six crowns, 58 wins, and the 2008 Indy 500. 

He is to join McLaren - the team founded by his fellow Kiwi Bruce, and thus will leave his iconic #9 Honda machine behind at CGR, and move to a Chevrolet powered McLaren.

Elsewhere, McLaren has also re-signed reigning Indy 500 champion Felix Rosenqvist. The Swede joined in 2021 but left after the 2023 season to join Meyer Shank, but is returning to the McLaren fold, months after winning the closest-ever Indy 500 in a photo-finish with David Malukas.

The two are to join Pato O'Ward on what have been described as "multi-year" contracts, with 2014 Indy 500 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay, who is also the new sporting director, in a one-off entry for the Indy 500.

The news of McLaren signing Dixon and Rosenqvist means existing drivers Nolan Siegel and Christian Lundgaard are to leave the team. 

"Joining Arrow McLaren in 2027 is an exciting next step in my career. It was a big decision for myself, for my family, and I’m looking forward to contributing to what the team, Zak and Tony are building there," said Dixon. 

"As a New Zealander, being part of Bruce McLaren’s legacy will be special; his spirit and grit are still very much rooted in that team, and I’m excited to carry that on."

CEO Zak Brown added that the team felt the driver line-up would aid it McLaren's bid to conquer IndyCar.

"Our IndyCar team has shown fantastic momentum, and this lineup of Pato, Scott, Felix and Ryan will strengthen every aspect of our program," he said.

"We’ve got our eyes firmly set on the Championship as well as winning the Indianapolis 500 to secure the Triple Crown in the Papaya era. 

"These four drivers bring a wealth of experience as well as great chemistry and will no doubt have a positive impact across our entire team. 

"Christian’s and Nolan’s contributions have helped shape the progress we’re building on today, and I appreciate the energy and drive they have brought to the team since they joined."