British racing driver Jay Howard will join the grid for the 101st Indianapolis 500 in May after being confirmed in Schmidt Peterson Motorsports' third seat through the Tony Stewart Foundation.
Three-time NASCAR Cup champion Stewart announced last month that his foundation would be forming 'Team One Cure' to back a third SPM Honda entry for the 2017 Indy 500.
On Monday, Howard was confirmed as the driver for the #77 entry, having last made an IndyCar appearance at the 2011 Firestone Twin 275s at Texas Motor Speedway and one previous start at the 500 the same year, where he retired early on.
"I can’t begin to tell you how honoured I am to have this opportunity,” said Howard. “I’m not one to give up on a dream and I have every bit of determination to make this a successful effort for Tony, Team One Cure and Schmidt Peterson Motorsports.
"I’m in the best condition both mentally and physically, and my race craft is on point. We will be more than ready when IMS opens for practice this May."
"We are pleased to have Jay competing with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports once again,” Schmidt Peterson Motorsports co-owner Sam Schmidt added.
“Given our impressive winning record together in the past, we have high expectations for the 101st Indy 500. Jay is extremely talented in the car as well as being a great advocate for the Team One Cure initiative."
