Robert Shwartzman emphatically denied circulating rumors questioning his commitment to his IndyCar career, addressing what he termed “offensive” speculation on September 10, 2025. the driver,currently competing in the Formula 2 Championship,is slated to join Arrow McLaren for the 2026 IndyCar season and responded to claims suggesting he wasn’t fully dedicated to the transition.
The controversy stems from online commentary alleging Shwartzman viewed IndyCar as a temporary stepping stone,lacking genuine enthusiasm for the series. This narrative gained traction amidst discussions surrounding Colton Herta’s potential Formula 1 move and Will Power’s anticipated shift to Andretti in 2026, creating a backdrop of driver movement and speculation. Shwartzman’s clarification is crucial for both his relationship with Arrow McLaren and his reception within the IndyCar community, as a perception of disinterest could jeopardize his opportunities and impact team dynamics.
“I saw some things online that were quite offensive, honestly,” Shwartzman stated in a social media post. “To suggest I’m not 100% committed to IndyCar and Arrow mclaren is wholly false. I’m working incredibly hard to prepare for this new challenge,and I’m excited about the possibility.”
Shwartzman, 24, secured a deal with Arrow McLaren in July 2025, joining the team alongside Pato O’Ward and Alexander Rossi. He will replace Felix Rosenqvist, who moved to Haas F1 Team. The Russian-Israeli driver has a strong racing background, including a triumphant Formula 3 campaign and a competitive stint in Formula 2, where he currently ranks seventh in the championship standings as of September 10, 2025. He has also served as a Ferrari test driver.
