Theo Pourchaire issues statement on McLaren sacking after ‘grossly inaccurate’ interview

During one of his limited IndyCar races in 2024, Theo Pourchaire from Arrow McLaren competes at Road America.

First, Theo Pourchaire lost his job as an Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver just before the American open-wheel series headed to Laguna Seca. Now, Pourchaire has had to issue a statement about his sacking after a “grossly inaccurate” interview with AUTOhebdo.

Earlier this week, the French publication stated that Pourchaire was feeling “disgusted” towards McLaren due to an alleged breach of contract with the IndyCar team. However, Pourchaire has now clarified that he was misquoted and has released a statement to rectify the situation.

Theo Pourchaire: Some quotes were “absolutely false”

Theo Pourchaire had to release a statement on X to address the misrepresentation of his words in the AUTOhebdo interview, which had gained attention on social media. He emphasized that the portrayal of his comments was “significantly incorrect.”

Pourchaire expressed his disappointment on social media regarding the article published on AUTOhebdo this week, stating that his words and comments were portrayed inaccurately in the interview.

Even though I was taken aback by Arrow McLaren’s choice to remove me from the car prior to Laguna Seca, we parted ways on friendly terms.

“While it is indeed disappointing to not be racing with the team, I must acknowledge their adherence to all aspects of the contract. Zak Brown, Gavin Ward, Tony Kanaan, and the entire team have shown unwavering support towards my desire to return to INDYCAR or engage in other racing endeavors.”

“It is completely false for AUTOhebdo to include any doubts about the stability of Arrow McLaren’s partnerships and funding in my interview.”

“I am grateful for the time I spent with the team, and I hold no grudges. I hope that this will help rectify any misconceptions that exist about both the team and me.”

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Pourchaire’s stint in IndyCar was as brief as it was controversial.

Initially contracted to David Malukas, McLaren’s No. 6 Chevrolet machine became available for other drivers after Malukas injured his wrist in a mountain biking accident prior to the season.

In April’s Long Beach Grand Prix, Pourchaire secured a seat and impressively surged ahead by 11 positions during the race, ultimately securing an 11th place finish.

Afterwards, he replaced Malukas at Barber in Alabama. Following this, Pourchaire was enlisted by Arrow McLaren for the remainder of the season, except for the Indianapolis 500. During this period, he would be participating in Super Formula.

After participating in events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, the Detroit Grand Prix, and the Grand Prix of Road America, the Frenchman was let go by the team. Consequently, Arrow McLaren decided to bring onboard newcomer Nolan Siegel.

Pourchaire found himself in a collision with Agustin Canapino of Juncos Hollinger Racing during the Detroit weekend. Following the race, numerous fans of Canapino resorted to sending Pourchaire derogatory messages on social media. However, Canapino refuted any claims of such incidents occurring.

In the series, Pourchaire’s highest performance was a 10th place finish in Detroit.

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McLaren Theo Pourchaire