Linus Lundqvist, a newcomer to the 2024 IndyCar season, is thrilled to have access to the necessary resources at CGR. Lundqvist, who won the IndyNXT championship in 2022, encountered difficulties securing a ride for the 2023 IndyCar season. However, he finally received the call to join Chip Ganassi Racing, one of the most prominent teams in the field. With CGR offering a wealth of comprehensive resources and a talented pool of drivers to learn from, Lundqvist believes it is the ideal place for a skilled rookie to excel.
Lundqvist expressed his gratitude towards the team, stating, “I have everything I could ever need and more. The team has been exceptional, and the staff at the shop has put in an incredible amount of effort.” He also acknowledged the significance of CGR’s expansion to a five-car operation, recognizing the long hours and overtime required to make it happen. Lundqvist takes pride in being part of a team with five competitive cars.
As a rookie, Lundqvist values the opportunity to learn from experienced drivers like Scott Dixon and Alex Palou. He considers them to be living examples of success and finds immense value in studying their data, understanding their approach, and learning about their car preferences. Lundqvist believes this knowledge is invaluable as he navigates his way through his first season.
Last season, while searching for a ride, Lundqvist was called in as a substitute for Simon Pagenaud in three races. He saw these races as opportunities to showcase his abilities and improve his chances of securing a permanent seat. During his debut in Nashville, Lundqvist performed impressively, consistently placing his Meyer Shank Racing car in the top half of the field. Although a late-race mistake led to contact with the barriers, Lundqvist’s performance caught the attention of Chip Ganassi. The team owner later admitted that it was during this race that he realized Lundqvist was the right fit for his team.
Lundqvist is proud to have convinced Ganassi of his worthiness for a seat in one of his cars. He acknowledges the high expectations that come with joining a top team and is determined to fight for podium finishes and race wins. Despite a setback in his first race with CGR, where he suffered damage to his rear wing due to a maneuver by Romain Grosjean, Lundqvist remains optimistic. With 17 races remaining, including a non-points paying round at the Thermal Club, he has ample opportunities to showcase his skills and make a mark in the IndyCar season.