The Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team announced a new complimentary fan event, the Arrow McLaren Arlington Fan Fest presented by Mission Foods, scheduled for March 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. Central Time. The event will take place at the Arlington Backyard, located within the Texas Live! entertainment district, just days before the team competes in the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington.
This gathering offers fans the chance to connect with the team and drivers prior to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’s debut on Arlington’s street circuit, enhancing excitement for the weekend’s race.
Exciting Activities and Driver Appearances Scheduled
Arrow McLaren will host race-week festivities
“in the heart of it all”
as fans enjoy a behind-the-scenes kickoff party near the racetrack. Drivers Pato O’Ward, Nolan Siegel, and Christian Lundgaard will be present for autograph sessions at designated times during the evening. Attendees will also get an exclusive reveal of the No. 6 SmartStop Arrow McLaren Chevrolet’s new race livery, offering a first look at the vehicle that will compete on Arlington’s streets.
Programming includes a Q&A session featuring Dallas comedian Ralph Barbosa and driver Pato O’Ward, along with a Women in Sports Panel sponsored by team partner NTT DATA, spotlighting female sports leaders and race officials. The event space will also feature interactive elements such as SmartStop racing simulators, merchandise stands, and a “Get Ready Zone” where fans can prepare for race weekend. Additional highlights include Mission Foods and VELO product displays and a dedicated kid zone to entertain younger attendees.
Event Location and Race Details
The Arlington Backyard is situated next to Globe Life Field, home to the Texas Rangers baseball team, and east of AT&T Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys play. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES racers will speed past both venues along the 2.73-mile circuit during the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, which runs March 13 through March 15.
The main INDYCAR race will be televised nationally on FOX at 11:30 a.m. CT on Sunday, March 15. Fans interested in attending can purchase tickets through the official race website.
Pato O’Ward Shares Enthusiasm for Arlington Weekend
Pato O’Ward, driver of the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, expressed his anticipation for the event and race weekend:
“I am excited to get back to Arlington for what will be a massive race weekend in an amazing place. Of course, I’m looking forward most to getting in the car and on track, but I’m equally pumped to see all our great fans down in Texas, a state that holds a very special place in my heart as a second home to me. The fan fest will be the perfect way to kick off a big weekend.”
— Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren Driver
Significance and Community Impact
The Arrow McLaren Fan Fest aims to deepen connections between drivers, fans, and local communities ahead of the new Arlington street race. By combining interactive experiences, driver access, and meaningful discussions on sports leadership, the event amplifies enthusiasm not only for race day but also for the broader growth of motorsports in Texas. This initiative is an important step in establishing Arlington as a vibrant hub for racing culture and engagement.
