Arrow McLaren has confirmed that Tony Kanaan will take the position of team principal at the IndyCar squad. It comes just over a week out from the season-opener at St. Petersburg in Florida.
There was widespread surprise when the news broke at the end of last year that Gavin Ward would be departing his role as team boss at Arrow McLaren. The Canadian previously had very successful spells at Red Bull Racing in Formula 1, and Team Penske in the North American category.
Kanaan’s record on the track was exceptional. He won the IndyCar championship in 2004, and he cemented his legacy in the series by winning the 2013 Indy 500. The Brazilian’s final IndyCar appearance came at the 2023 Indy 500 as he drove for Arrow McLaren. He became a special advisor for the team that year.
Tony Kanaan, Team Principal, Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team, said:
“A lot has happened since my last Indy 500 less than two years ago, to say the least. I’ve embraced every opportunity to grow with the team and I’m excited to officially step into the Team Principal role, and having Kevin join to take on the business side of our team is part of our winning strategy.
“We’re always looking for good people and talent to make the team stronger, and he and I will work well together.”
Arrow McLaren also confirmed that Kevin Thimjon will take on the role as President of the organisation.
“Kevin Thimjon joins Arrow McLaren this spring as President, bringing extensive leadership experience from roles at Core BTS, Lids Sports Group and Just Marketing International (JMI).
“He will lead the team’s business operations, including finance, commercial strategy and administration, supporting the team’s long-term growth and operational efficiency.
“Kevin will also join the McLaren Racing Executive Team under CEO Zak Brown,” said Arrow McLaren in the press release.
Kevin Thimjon, President, Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team, said:
“I’m looking forward to joining Arrow McLaren and getting back into motorsport. Zak and I worked together at JMI for several years, so it will be great to work with him again and help grow a team and brand that has a lot of unlocked potential, beyond the success it’s already realized.
“I have no doubt that Tony will get me up to speed on all things racing while we build the business with the strong team in place.”
Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing said:
“I’m excited to welcome Kevin to Arrow McLaren and our leadership group. Kevin and I have stayed close since our days together at JMI, and he’s the right fit to set the team up for long-term success. A few months ago, I said if we can find extra horsepower to add to the team, we’ll add it, and Kevin is the perfect example of that.
“Under Tony’s leadership, the team has been moving forward quickly, and he and Kevin will work well together to keep that positive momentum up. Our sights are set on how we stabilize and grow strategically while competing at the top.”
