Arrow McLaren announced a significant restructuring to their leadership team for the 2025 racing season, including hiring former IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan as team principal and Kevin Thimjon as president. This strategic decision seeks to capitalize on Kanaan’s immense racing expertise as team principal while Thimjon lends his business acumen in leading Arrow towards more success on motorsports’ challenging platforms.
Tony Kanaan: From IndyCar Champion to Team Principal
Tony Kanaan, an established IndyCar competitor, will assume the pivotal position of team principal at Arrow McLaren beginning in 2025. Working alongside Kevin Thimjon who will manage its business operations as President, Kanaan will guide an impressive roster of drivers including Pato O’Ward, Nolan Siegel and Christian Lungaard under his watchful gaze. Kanaan’s appointment embodies Arrow McLaren’s dedication and ambition as they set their sights on new milestones under his watchful leadership.
A Storied IndyCar Legacy
Throughout an illustrious 23-year career in IndyCar racing, Tony Kanaan participated in 296 races, making his debut in 2002 before embarking on a full-time career from 2003. Kanaan’s maiden victory came at the 2003 Purex Dial Indy 200 in Phoenix, a win that marked the beginning of his successful career which saw him clinching 16 victories, including the prestigious 2013 Indianapolis 500. Despite scaling back his racing engagements in later years, Kanaan remained a formidable presence on the track, culminating in his final Indianapolis 500 appearance with Arrow McLaren in 2023.
Ascending Through the Ranks
Since his last race, Kanaan has progressively taken on more influential roles within Arrow McLaren, evolving from a special advisor to deputy team principal, and now to the team principal position. His rapid ascent through the team’s ranks exemplifies his dedication and aptitude for leadership within the world of motorsports.
Kevin Thimjon Joins as President
Kevin Thimjon’s appointment as President adds an experienced business sidekick to complement Kanaan’s racing knowledge. Thimjon brings years of experience from previous roles that will enhance Arrow McLaren’s operational efficiency and growth strategy; working closely alongside McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown promises synergies that unlock its full potential.
Arrow McLaren hopes that Kanaan and Thimjon’s combined strengths can bolster its journey toward long-term success and competitiveness at the highest levels of racing. Their inclusion as members of Arrow McLaren’s leadership team signifies a new chapter, designed to maintain and continue building positive momentum within their organization.