McLaren Racing has unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art IndyCar facility, marking a significant milestone in the team’s evolution and underscoring its long-term commitment to the series. The new factory, located at 7615 Zionsville Rd. in Indianapolis, will nearly triple the space of its current facility, expanding from 33,000 square feet to 86,000 square feet, including a 12,000-square-foot addition. This move represents more than just a physical upgrade—it’s a strategic leap forward for McLaren and a potential turning point for its IndyCar ambitions.
Since McLaren entered IndyCar in 2020 through a partnership with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, the team has operated out of Schmidt’s original Coffman Road facility. While functional, the space was designed for a one- or two-car operation, far from sufficient for McLaren’s current three-car full-time lineup and additional entries for the Indianapolis 500. The limitations of the old facility hindered the team’s ability to conduct expansive research and development, integrate Formula 1-level technology, and streamline operations.
The new facility, previously home to Andretti Global, will address these challenges head-on. Dillon Construction Group, the original builder of the shop in 1997, will oversee the transformation. The upgrades include a second-floor mezzanine, an in-house fitness center, an expanded lobby to showcase McLaren’s heritage, and a new elevator for improved accessibility. The exterior will also receive a modern facelift, featuring McLaren’s signature black-and-papaya color scheme and additional windows to enhance natural light.
“This investment is a big step in our long-term growth,” said McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown. “This new facility will provide our team with state-of-the-art tools, equipment, and space to keep pushing forward.”
The expanded space will allow McLaren to consolidate its operations, eliminating the inefficiencies of working across multiple locations. Currently, the team’s gym, vinyl shop, and storage spaces are spread out, creating logistical challenges. Team Principal Tony Kanaan highlighted the importance of this consolidation: “Right now, if we need a gearbox, we have to send two guys over to Brownsburg. The new shop will allow us to focus on what we need to fix without wasting time.”
Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Jul 20, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Indycar driver Pato O'Ward (5) celebrates with the trophy after winning the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Streets of Toronto.
While the new facility won’t include a wind tunnel, it will enable McLaren to integrate advanced technology and processes that rival top teams like Penske. “The car is what it is, but we have some technology we can bring in that the Penskes of the world have that we just don’t have the space for,” Brown explained. “It’s about continuing to move forward. We’ve got all the ingredients; we just haven’t put it in the oven yet.”
McLaren’s new factory is more than just a physical upgrade—it’s a statement of intent. The team has steadily evolved from a midfield contender to a championship threat, with Pato O’Ward currently second in the standings and Christian Lundgaard proving to be a competitive addition. However, Brown and the team acknowledge that a new facility alone won’t guarantee immediate success. “It won’t be a silver bullet,” Brown said. “But it’s about creating an environment where people can operate better, communicate more effectively, and bring more energy to the team.”
The facility also positions McLaren for potential expansion into other racing series. While no official plans have been announced, Brown hinted that the new space could accommodate an IMSA sportscar program or a World Endurance Championship prototype effort, aligning with McLaren’s broader motorsport ambitions.
As McLaren invests in its future, Brown remains vocal about the need for IndyCar to grow and remain commercially viable. “I’m in the offense, not defense mindset,” he said. “I’m going to do everything I can to make sure the sport grows and be vocal about it.” Brown emphasized the importance of maintaining strong TV partnerships and delivering exciting races to ensure the series’ long-term success.
Arrow McLaren plans to complete the renovation by early January 2026, with employees returning to work in the revamped facility after their traditional winter break. The new factory represents a culmination of McLaren’s multi-year effort to transform its IndyCar program from a midfield team to a championship contender. As Brown put it, “This is a lot of little things just all coming together.”
