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The Arrow McLaren IndyCar team has signaled a robust approach to the build-up for the Indianapolis 500, electing to use the upcoming Open Test to run the cars it intends to race rather than shelter them. Team Principal Tony Kanaan explained that the organization now has the depth of equipment and personnel to tolerate the usual on-track risks, allowing engineers and drivers to gather meaningful data on the chassis and setups that will be raced in May.
Adding to that stability is a one-off fourth car for veteran winner Ryan Hunter‑Reay, which arrives with branding from new partner GXO. The sponsorship highlights both increased commercial support and a strategic decision to maximize on-track mileage during the lead-up events, with the team treating the Open Test as a working session rather than a cautious preview.
Why Arrow McLaren is showing its hand at the Open Test
Traditionally, teams split their approach at pre-race open sessions — some run their race-ready chassis while others use backups to avoid jeopardizing their primary equipment. Arrow McLaren is doing the opposite: running what it plans to race. Kanaan summarized the rationale by pointing to improved inventory and preparation across the stable, noting that the squad now possesses a large pool of chassis and spares. With that buffer, the team can accept the normal risks of testing, gather cleaner comparisons, and accelerate setup development for the unique demands of the Indianapolis oval.
Preparation and personnel changes
A notable factor in the shift toward a full-strength Open Test program is the arrival of senior engineer Kyle Moyer, who joined Arrow McLaren after a long tenure at another top organization. Kanaan credited Moyer with tightening processes and raising standards, saying that the team now operates with clearer priorities and better execution. The combination of experienced technical leadership and a larger number of race-grade chassis—Kanaan indicated the organization has a double-digit roster of prepared cars—reduces the penalty for on-track incidents and makes aggressive testing more palatable.
Driver lineup and the GXO partnership
Arrow McLaren will enter the Indianapolis effort with its three full-season drivers—Pato O’Ward, Christian Lundgaard and Nolan Siegel—and the additional one-off boosted by commercial support: Ryan Hunter‑Reay in the No. 31 Chevrolet. The GXO logo will ride on that car for the Indy 500 weekend, reflecting the logistics firm’s desire to align its brand with high-performance teamwork and precision. For Hunter‑Reay, a former winner and series champion, the extra entry provides a familiar platform and an opportunity for the team to leverage his experience during the Month of May.
What the extra car delivers on track
Beyond marketing value, the fourth entry functions as a technical asset: it increases the team’s ability to test different setups simultaneously, confirm race simulations, and trial alternative strategies under live conditions. This is particularly useful at the Open Test when collecting reference runs and validating aero and mechanical balance on the oval. With the No. 31 available, Arrow McLaren can parallelize development tasks that would otherwise require more sessions or greater compromise.
Broader implications and what to watch
Arrow McLaren’s decision to field its primary Indy 500 cars at the Open Test signals confidence in its preparation and logistics. Expect the team to use the session to refine race trim, pit procedures and fuel strategies while collecting baseline telemetry for the month of May. Observers should also note how quickly the drivers adapt to incremental setup changes—data that will be crucial during qualifying and the race itself. The organization’s mix of veteran insight, fresh engineering influence, and added sponsorship support paints a picture of a team aiming to convert practice into competitive advantage.
Final takeaways
In short, Arrow McLaren is leaning into the Open Test as an opportunity rather than a liability. With strengthened chassis availability, the addition of GXO as a partner, and leadership from experienced personnel, the team expects to emerge better prepared for the Indianapolis 500 on May 24. The strategy removes some of the secrecy common to pre-race sessions and replaces it with open development—a calculated move that could pay dividends when the green flag drops.