Despite an earlier announcement by the team on Tuesday, Alex Palou, tweeted that evening he was not joining Chip Ganassi Racing in 2023.
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I have recently learned from the media that this afternoon, without my approval, Chip Ganassi Racing issued a press release announcing that I would be driving with CGR in 2023. Even more surprising was that CGR’s release included a “quote” which did not come from me.
— Alex Palou Montalbo (@AlexPalou) July 12, 2022
Palou, the 2021 IndyCar Series Champion, is leaving Chip Ganassi Racing. It was announced shortly before 6:25pm CT, Palou would join McLaren’s driver roster in 2023.
This is different from what was announced earlier in the day. CGR released a statement and announcement stating they were picking up Palou’s 2023 option. Palou on Tuesday evening instead tweets that he will not rejoin the team. He states that there were false quotes and he did not approve of the release.
Following the series of three tweets from Palou, McLaren announced Palou would be joining their driver lineup.
Within the McLaren release, Palou states; “I’m extremely excited to join the driver roster for such an iconic team as McLaren. I’m excited to be able to show what I can do behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car and looking at what doors that may open. I want to thank everyone at Chip Ganassi Racing for everything they have done for me.”
The release did not specify whether or not he would be joining the Arrow-McLaren IndyCar team or if he would be joining the F1 team. According to Palou’s quote, he wants to show what he can do in the F1 car.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown reiterates the Formula 1 and the training program for Palou; “I’m also looking forward to seeing him get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car as part of our Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) programme alongside Pato O’Ward and Colton Herta as we continue to build our driver talent. Alex is an incredibly talented driver who has won in every series he has raced in, and I’m happy to welcome him to the McLaren family.”
Palou is the defending IndyCar series champion. His contract with Chip Ganassi Racing will expire at the end of the year. As of Tuesday afternoon, Palou looked to be returning to the No. 10 ride for 2023. Instead, it will be Palou pivoting and going to McLaren.
Timeline of events:
2021- Alex Palou wins the IndyCar Series Championship for Chip Ganassi Racing.
7/12; 2:55pm CT- Chip Ganassi Racing announces the option picked up for Alex Palou.
7/12; 6:22pm CT- Palou tweets he is not rejoining CGR in 2023; McLaren announces Palou joining the roster.
