Christian Lundgaard is thriving in his first season with Arrow McLaren, delivering another standout performance in Sunday’s Java House Grand Prix of Monterey. Starting seventh on the grid, the Danish driver climbed to second by the chequered flag, securing his fifth podium in 14 starts for the team.
“I obviously knew the pit sequences would be really key around here,” Lundgaard said. “It ended up being a red tire race, and I just can’t thank this team enough.”
The 22-year-old opted to begin the race on Firestone’s primary tyre compound, stretching his opening stint to Lap 20. That early call allowed him to complete the remainder of the race on the faster alternate tyres, making up six places and continuing what has been a remarkable debut season with his new team.
Lundgaard’s results with Arrow McLaren already eclipse his three full seasons at Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, where he notched just three podiums from 52 starts, including a single win on the streets of Toronto in 2023. This year alone, he’s secured two second-place finishes and consistently run near the front.
“This is the most podiums they’ve had in a single year, so I’m very proud of the No. 7 team, and I’m sure they are, too,” Lundgaard added.
The No. 7 car had achieved just four podiums in its previous 81 starts prior to his arrival, making Lundgaard’s impact immediately felt. His performances have brought new life to Arrow McLaren’s campaign and added a serious contender to the front of the INDYCAR field.
