David Malukas tore ligaments in his left wrist throughout a mountain biking accident and can miss the beginning of his first season driving for McLaren Racing.

McLaren mentioned Wednesday that Malukas, 22, had undergone surgical procedure on his dislocated wrist a day earlier. Malukas could have stitches eliminated Feb. 22 and is predicted to want six weeks to get well.

The IndyCar season begins March 10 at St. Petersburg, Florida.

“I am gutted this occurred, particularly so near the season,” Malukas mentioned in an announcement. “I really feel horrible for the staff who’ve labored so onerous to arrange for our first season collectively. I might be working onerous to get again on monitor as quickly as I can.”

Malukas in September was named McLaren’s third IndyCar driver, becoming a member of Alexander Rossi and Pato O’Ward. Alex Palou broke his contract to hitch McLaren and opted as a substitute to stick with Chip Ganassi Racing, whereas Felix Rosenqvist was launched and is transferring to Meyer Shank Racing.

McLaren officers mentioned they’re evaluating reserve driver choices for Malukas’ No. 6 Chevrolet.

“It is simply heartbreaking for David, after all, and our complete staff,” McLaren staff principal Gavin Ward mentioned. “We have seen how a lot work he and this complete group has put into getting ready for his first season in papaya. But it surely’s typically how we get well from setbacks and adversity that defines us and our character. We are going to do every part we are able to to assist David in his restoration and when he is again on monitor the success might be all of the sweeter.”