Nolan Siegel was sidelined from last Sunday’s race after a heavy crash during the Synk 275. IndyCar Medical withheld clearance out of caution, wanting to monitor him for signs of a concussion. After following a structured recovery plan throughout the week, Siegel was officially cleared to return to competition on Thursday. Speaking to reporters in Toronto on Friday, he said he felt “good” and was grateful for the support of the medical team, who ensured a safe and thorough return to racing.
Missing the race was difficult for the young driver from Palo Alto, California. “Believe me, I wanted to be in the car,” Siegel said via Forbes. While disappointed, he acknowledged the authority of IndyCar’s medical professionals, especially Dr. Julia Vaizer. “As much as I hated sitting out and wanted to argue with them, they know more about this than I do.” He emphasized his appreciation for their help in getting him ready to compete again and said the experience deepened his gratitude for the opportunity to race.
In Friday’s practice session, Siegel struggled slightly, finishing 22nd out of 27 on the tight Toronto street circuit. However, by Saturday morning, he had found more speed and placed as high as third in the practice session. Arrow McLaren Sporting Director Tony Kanaan expressed full confidence in Siegel, saying, “He is our driver for now, through the end of next year and even beyond.”
Siegel gave insight into the detailed medical process that cleared him to race again. Starting Monday, he followed a step-by-step recovery plan, gradually increasing his physical workload while checking for symptoms. He completed a final high-intensity workout and simulator session on Thursday without issues. “It’s actually comforting to go through all of that and know I’m good to go,” Siegel said.
In the days following Siegel’s crash, Arrow McLaren prepared Linus Lundqvist as a potential replacement if clearance didn’t come. Once Siegel was approved, Lundqvist shifted back to a reserve role but remained with the team through the weekend. “I’m glad to see Nolan is okay — that’s never how you want to get back in,” Lundqvist said. He appreciated being involved with the team again and called the experience a reminder of how much he misses being part of IndyCar.
Lundqvist has had an up-and-down journey in the series. After promising performances in 2023 and a solid 2024 season with Chip Ganassi Racing — including a pole at Road America and podiums at Barber and Gateway — he lost his seat when the team downsized under IndyCar’s new charter system. Despite finishing 16th in the standings, he’s been hunting for a full-time opportunity since.
In the meantime, Lundqvist is staying prepared. “I’ve been training, staying in shape, coaching when I can, and living off savings to keep showing up at races,” he said. He’s continuing to call team bosses and follow the same playbook that kept him visible in 2023. “Life’s not fair,” he added, “but if I do everything I can, win or lose, I’ll be satisfied.” Both Siegel and Lundqvist exemplify the resilience needed to survive in the unpredictable world of IndyCar racing.
