Indy 500: Juan Pablo Montoya to return in 2021 with McLaren

Two-time Indy 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya is set to return to the race in 2021 for the first time since 2017 with Arrow McLaren SP.

The driver who holds the record for the most time between two Indy 500 wins is set to return to the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” after another lengthy hiatus.

Juan Pablo Montoya is set to return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the 105th running of the 200-lap race around the four-turn, 2.5-mile (4.023-kilometer) oval in Speedway, Indiana this upcoming May.

The 45-year-old Colombian is set to drive a Chevrolet-powered car for Arrow McLaren SP in this race alongside full-time drivers Pato O’Ward behind the wheel of the #5 Chevrolet and Felix Rosenqvist behind the wheel of the #7 Chevrolet. Montoya competed for the McLaren Formula 1 team in 2005 and 2006 and won three races.

Here is what he had to say about the opportunity to return to the Brickyard with the team in 2021, according to a team release.

"“I have some great history with McLaren from my F1 days, and I’m looking forward to making some more at next year’s Indianapolis 500,”"

Here is what team co-owner Sam Schmidt had to add.

"“(Montoya’s) experience will elevate the entire team, including our young, talented lineup of Pato and Felix. When you think that he’s only started in the Indy 500 five times, but won twice, that’s impressive.”"

Here is what McLaren CEO Zak Brown noted.

"“I’m delighted for Juan to rejoin the McLaren family and return to the Indianapolis 500 with Arrow McLaren SP. He is an intensely competitive, highly versatile driver with deep experience at the top level of motorsport and a big following. Having him with us at the 500 next year will be great for the team and IndyCar fans everywhere.”"