Arrow McLaren driver David Malukas will miss the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season opener after undergoing successful surgery Feb. 13 to repair torn ligaments in his dislocated left wrist, injuries suffered in a mountain biking accident last weekend.

Malukas’ recovering timeline is estimated to be six weeks following the removal of his stitches Feb. 22, according to an Arrow McLaren statement.

Arrow McLaren is evaluating reserve driver options for the No. 6 NTT DATA Arrow McLaren Chevrolet for season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on March 10.

“I’m gutted this happened, especially so close to the season,” Malukas said. “I feel horrible for the team, who have worked so hard to prepare for our first season together. I will be working hard to get back on track as soon as I can. I can’t wait to go racing with the team in papaya.”

Malukas is entering his third season in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES but his first with Arrow McLaren after moving to the team following his first two seasons with Dale Coyne Racing with HMD. He produced a podium finish in each of his first two seasons after graduating from INDY NXT by Firestone, both at World Wide Technology Raceway, placing second in 2022 and third last season.

“It’s just heartbreaking for David, of course, and our entire team,” Arrow McLaren Team Principal Gavin Ward said. “We’ve seen how much work he and this entire group has put into preparing for his first season in papaya. But it’s often how we recover from setbacks and adversity that defines us and our character. We will do everything we can to support David in his recovery, and when he’s back on track, the success will be all the sweeter.”