J.R. Hildebrand has secured a drive with Ed Carpenter Racing for the Grand Prix of Indianapolis and the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 in May, renewing his partnership with the outfit once again.
The 28-year-old American racer has competed with Ed Carpenter Racing for the last two years at the Indianapolis 500, finishing 8th last season ahead of team-mates Josef Newgarden and team owner Ed Carpenter.
Once again Hildebrand will be joined for the 500-mile event by both Carpenter and regular racer Newgarden, with Carpenter electing to only compete on the oval races throughout the year.
The 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 in May will be Hildebrand’s sixth start at the Brickyard, with the former Indy Lights champion securing a personal best finish of second back in 2011, despite crashing at the final corner on the final lap.
Whilst leading on the final lap Hildebrand slammed into the wall, losing the lead to Dan Wheldon and limping across the line to finish second. That year Hildebrand secured the rookie of the year award, finishing the season 14th overall in the standings.
“I'm really glad we were able to put everything together at ECR,” enthused Hildebrand.
“Especially going into this year's 100th running of the ‘500,’ you know everyone is bringing their absolute best to the fight.
“After the experience I've had over the last two years with this team, I know that we're going to be bringing a race-winning effort ourselves.
“I'm looking forward to working with Ed and Josef again and putting the entries up front throughout May.”
The Grand Prix of Indianapolis will take place on May 14, with the coveted Indianapolis 500 taking place two weeks later on May 29.
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