IndyCar – Spencer Pigot full-time in 2018

Spencer Pigot has landed a full-time contract for the 2018 seasonIndyCar with Ed Carpenter Racing. The 23-year-old American made ten starts last year and will make his 11th this weekend at the final in Sonoma (California) and next year will drive the No. 21 entrusted until now to JR Hildebrand who plays at within the team since 2014. Ed Carpenter's structure has not yet revealed the identity of the driver who will replace the boss in the urban and road races.

“It’s nice to know that they believe in me and that I can deliver the results they expect, comments Spencer Pigot. I didn't want to be on any other team than this one. I really enjoy working with ECR. I'm still young for IndyCar and I hope to stay there for a long time. I clearly still have a lot to learn, especially on ovals, because I haven't driven on these circuits regularly in the last two years. »

“I couldn't dream of a better place to learn on ovals with this team and with Ed as a teammate, adds the 2015 Indy Lights champion. I've been to every oval event in recent seasons, constantly watching and listening, but it will be different to drive there. »

“This is probably the first time I know so quickly where I will be riding next season, notes Spencer Pigot. It's nice to be able to continue my career now being under full-time contract. It definitely takes the pressure off my shoulders and I can now focus on my riding and my performance rather than the other aspects of the competition. »

Ed Carpenter regrets having to part ways with JR Hildebrand but the team's boss-driver believes that Spencer Pigot has more resources. The former Pro Mazda champion notably signed three top tens this year compared to two top fives for Hildebrand who competed all season.

“These decisions are always difficult to make, but we have seen real progress from Spencer this year as we look to regain our ability to challenge for titles. We feel that Spencer needs to be behind the wheel full time to continue his development”, explains Ed Carpenter.