Honda Racing Corporation US has announced that Linus Lundqvist has been brought on as the manufacturer’s IndyCar development driver.
In his role, Lundqvist will focus on simulator work and spend time in Honda’s advanced Driver in the Loop system to find advantages that can be used at the track.
“We are pleased to welcome 2024 IndyCar Rookie of the Year Linus Lundqvist as our HRC Driver-In-The-Loop (DIL) Simulator Development Driver,” read Honda Racing’s announcement.
“Linus’ expertise will help us create an HRC DIL sim experience more closely aligned with the on-track product in IndyCar racing.
“His speed, technical feedback and experience as a Honda-powered driver make him a valuable addition to our development program. Welcome to HRC, Linus!”
Lundqvist has had difficulty finding a permanent role in the series, as he showed plenty of skill behind the wheel but still struggled to secure a consistent drive.
He won the Indy Lights championship in 2022, but then had difficulty finding the funding necessary to jumpstart his IndyCar career.
The Swede contested a few IndyCar races in 2023 and secured a full time ride with Chip Ganassi Racing for 2024.
He earned one pole and two podiums that season, claiming the Rookie of the Year title in the process. But the team dropped from five to three entries for the following season, and Lundqvist was once again without a ride.
He has been a consistent presence in the paddock since then, talking with people and remaining an option for any team that would have needed a driver on short notice.
This new opportunity allows Lundqvist to have more consistent work and put his skills to good use on the equally-important development side of the business.
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