Pato O’Ward Joins Andretti Indy Lights Roster
INDIANAPOLIS – Pato O’Ward has joined Andretti Autosport to contest the full Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires schedule.
O’Ward will drive the No. 27 Mazda and joins returning Andretti drivers Colton Herta, Dalton Kellett and Ryan Norman.
“First off, I want to thank the whole Andretti Autosport team for the incredible opportunity they are giving me,” O’Ward said. “I’m really happy to be with this power house team and I will give this my all to deliver results. I have been working really hard with Michael [Andretti] and J-F [Thormann] to put this deal together, and I’m more than proud to be a part of such a prestigious team like Andretti. I can’t wait to start working with everyone and I’m sure its going to be an awesome year, so lets go get it.”
The 18-year-old Mexico native showed impressive talent throughout his 2016 Pro Mazda Presented by Cooper Tires season, where O’Ward finished second in the championship standings. Pato earned six victories in the first seven races in 2016, and ended his successful season with seven race wins, five poles and nine podiums.
O’Ward shifted his focus to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Prototype Challenge class in 2017, capturing the class championship alongside co-driver James French after winning all but one race.
“We’re excited to have Pato [O’Ward] join our Indy Lights family in 2018,” said Andretti Autosport CEO & Team Owner Michael Andretti. “Pato had a strong, successful Pro Mazda season in 2016 and has been working hard to make the jump to Indy Lights. I’m confident his talent will blend well with Colton [Herta], Dalton [Kellett] and Ryan [Norman] and I’m looking forward to seeing our drivers on the podium this season.”
Source :speedsport.com
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