Tristan Gommendy will link up with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports to pilot the squad’s No. 77 car during next year’s running of the Indianapolis 500.
Schmidt has finalised a deal with Calmels Sport which will see Gommendy race its third car, in a blue, white and red livery, in honour of Gommendy’s native France.
Gommendy, 38, who competes in the LMP2 class of the World Endurance Championship, has not raced in IndyCar, though did make a handful of appearances in Champ Cars in 2007.
“Competing in the Indianapolis 500 is a dream come true; it was a career goal when I was racing in Champ Car,” said Gommendy.
“Even though I grew up driving open-wheel cars, everything is completely new when you get to Indy.
“The Speedway and this race demand a lot of respect. Racing at 230 mph with four 90° turns is far from the European motorsport culture.
“I know I’ll have to work very hard to get ready for next May. The first steps, including my first simulator test, went well, but much more work needs to be done.
“Everything so far has shown me that this partnership between Calmels Sport and SPM is extraordinary. In the United States, everything is possible… provided you earn your spot.”
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