Mentorship Partnership: Simon Pagenaud and Theo Pourchaire
A burgeoning mentoring relationship has formed between 2016 IndyCar champion Simon Pagenaud and rising star Theo Pourchaire, marked by their initial connection on social media. Pourchaire, the 2023 FIA Formula 2 champion, expressed appreciation for Pagenaud’s support during his first IndyCar race at Long Beach in 2024, stating, “It made me extremely happy… I do not doubt that Simon will be a great help to me and my future in motorsport.”
Pourchaire will be benefiting from Pagenaud’s extensive experience, which includes 15 IndyCar victories, an American Le Mans Series title, and a Rolex 24 at Daytona win, alongside a second-place finish at Le Mans in 2011. While Pagenaud currently recovers from concussion-like symptoms sustained during a crash at Mid-Ohio, he remains active in motorsport through simulator development work for GM and by advising Scott McLaughlin of Team Penske during the Indy 500.
Pagenaud remarked, “Motorsport is a demanding world, where talent alone is not always enough.” He praised Pourchaire’s aspirations and commitment to learning, indicating a willingness to guide him through the complexities of a racing career. He noted, “I am convinced that Theo can go very far, and I am happy to accompany him on this path.”
Pourchaire, who did not race on ovals during his brief IndyCar stint, plans to be at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Carb Day, where he expects to gain invaluable insights from Pagenaud about the iconic Indy 500. “I can’t wait to discover the Indy 500 from a different angle,” he said.
In tandem with his collaboration in the U.S., Pourchaire’s manager, Julien Abelli, will pursue opportunities for him in Europe, ensuring a balanced approach to his developing career.
