Chip Ganassi’s Felix Rosenqvist has sent out an open invitation for other drivers to join him in the NTT IndyCar Series, particularly European drivers.
Rosenqvist arrived in IndyCar this year with an impressive background in numerous racing categories alongside former Formula 1 driver and fellow Swede Marcus Ericsson, Santino Ferrucci and 2018 Indy Lights stars Patricio O’Ward and Colton Herta.
Recent seasons have seen the arrival of Andretti Autosport’s Alexander Rossi, DTM star Robert Wickens and double F1 World Champion Fernando Alonso who has now attempted the Indianapolis 500 on two occasions.
IndyCar has also seen a jump in international appeal in the years since CART and IRL merged in 2008, helping to attract a wider driver market.
To help boost attraction in the future, IndyCar bosses are also looking to add a third OEM engine supplier to help usher in a new, more powerful hybrid engine formula in 2022 which is set to increase power to over 900hp.
Also, a new Dallara chassis will be developed which will incorporate an aeroscreen developed by Red Bull Technologies, boosting safety and allaying some drivers' fears over safety.
“I would encourage anyone to come over here,” said the Swede at the IndyCar awards celebrations.
“I know many guys are looking to do it. Some of my friends, they’re always asking about how IndyCar, how are the ovals. That’s probably the biggest question I get.
“I really hope that more Europeans come over here.
“Bring IndyCar more to Europe because there’s a big racing audience there, as well. With me and Marcus [Ericsson], we probably increase that audience a lot. … Hopefully, more guys come in.”
