CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- James Hinchcliffe has been released from the new Arrow McLaren SP Racing team, two people with direct knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press, despite repeated public assurances that the popular Canadian was not leaving the organization once McLaren came aboard.
Hinchcliffe learned Sunday he was being replaced by 2018 Indy Lights Champion Pato O'Ward and said his farewells at the team shop Monday, the two people said. They spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because McLaren is not expected to formally announce its lineup of O'Ward and reigning Indy Lights champion Oliver Askew until Wednesday at the earliest.