P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Arrow McLaren’s Ward “cautiously optimistic” for 2024 after growing year
Last off-season, the team experienced a 40% growth, adding several new personnel to their roster, including former Andretti Autosport driver Alexander Rossi in a newly-added third car. Although some of the new hires lacked experience in IndyCar, all three full-time entries had a respectable performance, with Pato O’Ward leading the standings with seven podium finishes. The team has seen departures in the competition director and race engineer positions, but Ward believes they have had a remarkable low turnover off-season and are well-positioned to consolidate in 2024 with the experience gained. The team has been focusing on testing, especially with the postponed adoption of hybrid power, to compete with Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske. While Ward acknowledges the challenge, he remains optimistic and motivated to beat these exceptional organizations. The team is still building and improving in various areas, but Ward feels there is great depth within the group and the possibility of replacing internally for the vacant positions.
