Felix Rosenqvist opened up about his final six races with Meyer Shank Racing and his upcoming move to Arrow McLaren, offering candid reflections on his time with the squad that captured this year’s Indianapolis 500.
Memories from a winning season
The Swedish driver highlighted the early chemistry he felt after joining Meyer Shank Racing, recalling a pole at Long Beach as a “really cool memory.” He said the organization quickly found itself on the front row and “fighting up front,” a shift from earlier seasons when podiums felt less certain.
Rosenqvist called the Indianapolis 500 victory “the biggest day—at least for me—in my career.” He praised the collective effort, noting that teammates Marcus Armstrong and Helio Castroneves celebrated the win as if it were their own. He added that securing the second 500 win, the only two for the team, highlighted the “great culture” inside the operation.
Related: GM Extends SAIC Partnership for 20 Years in China
Decision to leave and what lies ahead
When asked why he chose to leave, Rosenqvist explained that IndyCar contracts often materialize mid‑year, typically in May through July. “You had to make these calls in the middle of the year, which is the way it works in the IndyCar Series, unfortunately,” he said, acknowledging the timing challenges.
He stressed that his departure does not reflect any dissatisfaction. “As I said a million times, it’s a fantastic team to work with,” he affirmed, adding that the incoming driver will “feel a great atmosphere, a great family spirit.” He praised leaders Mike Shank, Jim Meyer, and Adam Rovazzini for treating everyone “like a family member, very fairly.”
Rosenqvist described the decision as “the hardest decision I’ve had to make,” but expressed excitement about joining Arrow McLaren next season. He believes his three years of experience have made him “a better package” compared to his first stint with the organization in 2021.
Related: Safe Used Cars for Teen Drivers Under 20000
From a practical standpoint, his move could give Arrow McLaren a driver who understands both the minutiae of car setup and the broader strategic picture. Having spent three seasons honing racecraft and qualifying speed, he anticipates contributing more effectively than he could have three years prior.
Season focus and upcoming races
Despite the upcoming transition, Rosenqvist said his focus remains on the current campaign. “Nothing really changes from my standpoint here going into the last bit,” he noted, emphasizing the squad’s continued hunger for victories beyond the Indy 500.