Eric Cowdin Joins Arrow McLaren as Director of Engineering
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Veteran race engineer Eric Cowdin has joined Arrow McLaren as its new Director of Engineering, marking a significant addition to the team’s technical operations. Cowdin transitions to Arrow McLaren after two successful seasons as Competition Director at Ed Carpenter Racing, where he played a crucial role in securing a victory with Christian Rasmussen at Milwaukee in August.
In his new role, Cowdin will focus on trackside support, collaborating closely with Technical Director Nick Snyder, who will continue to lead the team’s engineering research and development efforts. Cowdin and Arrow McLaren’s driver Tony Kanaan share a history of teamwork, having previously won the 2013 Indianapolis 500 with KVSH Racing. This strategic hiring reflects Kanaan’s efforts to enhance the team’s competitive edge by recruiting proven talent from his successful past.
Cowdin is the latest in a series of key personnel changes under Kanaan’s leadership at Arrow McLaren. Notable additions include Kyle Moyer—former Team Penske team manager and a significant figure during Kanaan’s championship wins—and Scott Harner, formerly of Chip Ganassi Racing. Together, these engineers were integral to Kanaan’s 17 IndyCar victories.
In the last season, Arrow McLaren achieved a commendable second-place finish in the championship with Pato O’Ward, and Christian Lundgaard secured fifth place—a career best for both drivers and the team.
Kanaan emphasized the importance of hiring individuals who align with the team’s culture and ambition. “Eric Cowdin is as good if not better than anybody in this paddock,” Kanaan stated. He added, “We’re looking for the culture and the obsession that these people have to win,” highlighting the need for synergy in team dynamics beyond just technical expertise.
This strategic reshaping aims to propel Arrow McLaren further in the competitive landscape of IndyCar racing, signaling a commitment to excellence and innovation as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
