The off-track drama between IndyCar champion Alex Palou and the McLaren F1 team has been making headlines recently. While many expected Palou to appear with McLaren during the F1 season, McLaren accused him of circumventing what they considered a binding deal for 2024, prompting them to take legal action.
Despite those tensions, Palou was originally scheduled as McLaren’s official reserve driver for the upcoming Singapore GP. Ironically, McLaren CEO Zak Brown said Palou’s hotel accommodation was arranged, that he didn’t plan for his arrival. Palou’s position on the matter was unequivocal, stating:
“I’m going to attend any F1 race. “
Returning to 2022, Palou had expressed interest in Chip Ganassi’s transition to McLaren. However, a subsequent out-of-court settlement saw him remain at Ganassi, while only taking part in F1 test functions at McLaren. This agreement was short-lived. In December 2022, Palou would become McLaren’s F1 reserve after its IndyCar season for 2023.
After his second league win with Ganassi, Palou’s relationship with McLaren deteriorated. The F1 team has filed a lawsuit in the U. K. against him, pointing to an alleged breach of contract for the 2024 IndyCar season and similar issues to monetary transactions.
Brown, when asked via The Race about the implications of Palou’s moves on McLaren’s F1 strategies, confirmed: “He’s still our reserve driver. However, he foresaw Palou’s absence in Singapore and hinted at the search for chosen reserve pilots.
Palou proved that he would not attend any F1 races, sharing: “Yes, the plan has changed. I probably wouldn’t go to any F1 races. ” He also noted that there have been no direct discussions with Brown since the controversy began.
Lydia is the editor-in-chief of the F1 publishing house. After following the game for several years, he was nevertheless able to attend the British Grand Prix in 2017. Since then, she has not only been addicted to racing, but also to the environment that enthusiasts bring to each event. She is a strong advocate for women in motor games and a more varied industry.