IndyCar – JR Hildebrand joins Ed Carpenter Racing full-time

JR Hildebrand will be the new owner of the No. 21 of Ed Carpenter Racing in 2017. The 2009 Indy Lights champion will replace Josef Newgarden who left to join Team Penske, playing for the entire season.

“I couldn't be more ready, commented JR Hildebrand. I came close but didn't make it and I waited long enough to take advantage of this chance to come back full-time in IndyCar. The relationship I had with Ed Carpenter and his team sharpened my determination to get back behind the wheel because I know what we can achieve together. I feel like I have something to prove and I couldn't ask for a better place to do it. »

The 28-year-old Californian who started in IndyCar in 2011 with Panther Racing before competing in the Indianapolis 500 with Ed Carpenter Racing. He has finished in the top ten in the last three editions with his best result being 6th place this year.

“We started talking about it in 2013 and the time has finally come for JR to show what he’s worth full-time, added Ed Carpenter. He proved he was the right choice after doing an excellent job in each of his performances over the last three years. »

JR Hildebrand will team up with Ed Carpenter during the six oval events of the 2017 season. The program for the No. 20 is still undefined on road and urban circuits.