Arrow McLaren has confirmed on Monday that Linus Lundqvist will replace Nolan Siegel in Toronto this weekend should the young American fail an IndyCar medical check on Thursday.
What happened?
Running in P8 during the closing stages of race 1 at Iowa on Saturday evening following a very strong drive throughout, Nolan Siegel complained of balance issues in the last stint.
Coming into turn 4, the car got away from him. The rear of his car hit the safer barriers hard. Siegel was seen limping away from his car initially.
FOX reported yesterday he was not cleared to race on Sunday at Iowa due to a mild concussion. He was due to start 5th on the grid.
In most sports, it takes over a week for an athlete to return to action after a concussion. Unfortunately in the case of Simon Pagenaud after his massive accident at Mid-Ohio in 2023, it looks to have ended his racing career.
Linus Lundqvist heading for an IndyCar lifeline?
If Nolan Siegel misses out on the Toronto round, former Meyer Shank and Chip Gansssi Racing driver Linus Lundqvist could get another IndyCar opportunity.
The former Indy Lights/Indy NXT champion impressed everyone with his three appearances at MSR in 2023. Chip Gansssi Racing signed him for 2024.
Although the 26-year-old from Sweden scored his first two IndyCar podiums at Alabama and Gateway, CGR decided to retain Kyffin Simpson over him for this year. They reduced their roster to three cars.
He has kept a very low profile since that decision. However, this weekend could mark a massive opportunity if Siegel cannot drive.
Arrow McLaren IndyCar team statement
“Nolan Siegel will be evaluated by the INDYCAR Medical Team on Thursday morning ahead of his travel to Toronto and will compete this weekend if cleared.
“For precautionary planning purposes, Linus Lundqvist will join the team in Toronto in a reserve driver role, should Nolan not be cleared to compete through the Toronto race weekend.”
