IndyCar – Ed Jones joins Dale Coyne Racing

Ed Jones will play his first season in IndyCar playing alongside Sébastien Bourdais within Dale Coyne Racing. The Emirati was confirmed this Monday, November 14, four months before the start of the 2017 season at the Grand Prix of St Petersburg (Florida).

“Signing the contract so quickly allows me plenty of time to get used to the team and get to know everyone before the start of the season, rejoiced Ed Jones. IndyCar has always been my goal since I left Europe to come race in America and it's crazy to think that I will be on the grids of the discipline only two years after my departure. »

“We have been in discussions with several teams but Dale Coyne Racing has always been the best choice and Dale has worked hard to make the project come to fruition”, added the new recruit who will drive the #12 DW18.

Dale Coyne Racing seems to have opted for an interesting recruit if the Emirati's career is anything to go by. The 21-year-old driver of British origin won the European title F3 Open in 2013 before obtaining the coronation in Indy Lights with Carlin this season in his second year in the discipline.

“Ed has had some remarkable seasons in Indy Lights and we are delighted to welcome him to our team, said Dale Coyne, the owner of the team of the same name. I attended the finale at Laguna Seca (California) and he showed calm, maturity and determination under pressure, knowing the title was on the line. These are qualities that will serve him well in IndyCar. I was very impressed with what I saw. »

Ed Jones will also have the opportunity to progress by evolving with Sébastien Bourdais who has four Champ Car titles.

“He’s one of the best teammates for my rookie season, commented Ed Jones. He seems to be a very open person and he is also a superb reference because he is clearly one of the fastest drivers in the peloton. »

“I will have to gather as much information as possible and quickly find my rhythm, recalled the rookie. As a former driver, Dale understands what goes on behind the wheel and that will be of great benefit when I give him feedback. I will have to discover longer races, with stops and major strategies. Despite everything, I know that Dale Coyne Racing excels in this area. I couldn't have dreamed of a better first season. »