Carpenter: “More opportunities for young people in the USA”

How did you come into contact with Andretti?

Via my agents, which led me to do private tests in Homestead (Miami. Editor's note) in January, before participating in official tests at the beginning of March. We have signed an agreement for the first three races. Depending on the results, I could be aligned with other dates.

Why did you choose the United States?

I didn't have the budget to finance a season in Europe. I have the impression that there are more opportunities for young people in the USA. There F1 was my goal, butIndyCar becomes it. It is an increasingly popular discipline, particularly in France since the victory of Pagenaud at 500 miles.

Is the idea to bounce back after a complicated experience in Japan?

I was coming out of an enriching year in British F3 (12th, after having played 5 rounds out of 8. Editor’s note), but we ultimately only manageda single race in Super Formula. The idea was to learn with Real Racing before joining a big team, but our English sponsor turned out to be a scam. We had advanced the money, and due to lack of funds, the deal fell through after the first race. So I had a blank season.

We imagine you disappointed with not being able to run in St Petersburg...

It all ended on Friday. I was only able to do one practice session, before all activities were canceled. In addition, I made a mistake by violently climbing a curb after 4 laps, and my first experience ended there. I can't wait to be back for the Indy Grand Prix (postponed to July 4. Editor’s note)