Scott McLaughlin: “I didn’t think I’d have a chance this year”

Tested last winter at the Circuit of the Americas, Scott McLaughlin, three-time Supercars champion, was to make his debut in IndyCar during the Indianapolis Grand Prix last May. In the meantime, Covid-19 happened and his IndyCar dreams took a hit.

Thus, the date of its debut was postponed until the end of the year and the Saint Petersburg Grand Prix (October 25), the last of the season. “ “It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said at a press conference. I didn't think I'd have my chance this year due to the pandemic (...) It's a dream come true ».

Like a kid in a candy store, Scott McLaughlin, present in Bathurst last Sunday, wasted no time in getting to Uncle Sam's country as quickly as possible in order to prepare for his big debut. “ I arrived Monday evening (October 19) in Charlotte. I followed it up directly with four/five hours of simulator time.

I went back the next day and was able to meet the people on the team. The following days were used to get to know the entire team. ».

Ready for his baptism of fire, the three-time Supercars champion will discover a brand new route which is also urban and in car. " I am very excited about what awaits me (...) I'm not going to lie, it's a big challenge for me. I had to learn a lot of things that were new to me, or even get rid of certain habits. It will be very different ».

This Sunday, Scott McLaughlin will take part in his first IndyCar race with Team Penske. He will be supported by the three other drivers of the team simon pagenaud, Will Power and Josef Newgarden.

We can't wait. #INDYCAR | @smclaughlin93 | @ShellStationsUS pic.twitter.com/RVuHBVC7YD

— Team Penske (@Team_Penske) October 21, 2020