Zak Brown Wanted MotoGP Legend Valentino Rossi to Race for McLaren in IndyCar
McLaren CEO Zak Brown reportedly aimed to sign MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi for a one-off Indy 500 appearance with Arrow McLaren, a move that would have brought a global icon to single-seater racing. Although the plan didn't materialize, with Ryan Hunter-Reay instead joining the team, it highlights McLaren's ambition to attract high-profile talent and expand its brand appeal in major motorsport events.
MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi was reportedly considered for a one-off IndyCar appearance with McLaren, specifically for the Indy 500. McLaren CEO Zak Brown had reportedly pursued the nine-time two-wheel world champion for an entry with Arrow McLaren next year.
Why it matters:
McLaren's pursuit of a global icon like Valentino Rossi for the Indy 500 underscores the team's ambition to expand its brand reach and leverage high-profile motorsport crossovers. While ultimately unsuccessful, the interest highlights a broader trend of teams seeking unique star power to boost engagement and commercial appeal, especially in marquee events like the Indy 500.
The details:
- Jenna Fryer, a well-known Associated Press journalist, revealed on X that the "huge" Indy 500 one-off entry Brown was pursuing was Rossi.
- Rossi, often called 'The Doctor,' is one of MotoGP's most successful riders, boasting nine world championships (seven in the premier class) and is a global sports icon.
- Since retiring from MotoGP in 2021, Rossi has transitioned to car racing, competing in the GT World Challenge and the World Endurance Championship (WEC), including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
- Original Plan: Zak Brown had previously teased a "trick up our sleeves" for an Indy 500 entry, sparking significant fan speculation, which now appears to have been related to Rossi.
- Current Lineup: Instead of Rossi, the Arrow McLaren lineup for next year's Indy 500 will feature IndyCar legend Ryan Hunter-Reay (2014 Indy 500 winner), alongside Pato O’Ward, Nolan Siegel, and Christian Lundgaard.
What's next:
The 110th edition of the Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for May 24 next year. While Rossi will not be participating with McLaren, the team's confirmed lineup of experienced drivers and rising stars indicates a strong effort to contend for the prestigious victory. The pursuit of such high-profile figures reflects McLaren's ongoing strategy to maintain a prominent presence across various top-tier motorsport categories.