Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing has confirmed that Zach Claman De Melo will make his IndyCar Series debut with the team at next weekend’s Sonoma finale.
De Melo, 19, placed fifth in the championship during his second Indy Lights campaign, having captured his maiden victory at Road America.
De Melo will now graduate to the premier category to drive the No. 16 car, as team-mate to regular Graham Rahal.
“We’re pleased that Zach has chosen Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing to make his series debut,” said team co-owner Bobby Rahal.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-120x86.webp)
“Zach had a very good year in the Indy Lights Series and we think that he has the ability to perform well in the IndyCar Series.
“We closely watched his performance at the recent IndyCar test at Road America where he was the quickest of the rookies testing and we are confident that he can do a good, solid job for both himself and the team at Sonoma.
“Our goals for Zach are that he has a good, consistent race and gains experience, which is so important, and hopefully takes that experience to use as a stepping stone for 2018.”
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-350x250.webp)
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