Juncos Hollinger Racing announced on Thursday that Argentine racing star Agustin Canapino will make his NTT IndyCar Series race debut with the team this season starting with Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding at the beginning of March.
The 32 year old will drive the No.78 Chevrolet alongside Callum Ilott who is piloting the No.77 Chevrolet.
Canapino is the first driver from Argentina to compete in the NTT IndyCar Series since Juan Maual Fangio II 25 years ago.
Speaking about the news, Canapino, who did a demonstration run of a Juncos Hollinger Racing IndyCar in Argentina in October said”
For me, this is a great opportunity, so I am very grateful to Ricardo Juncos, Brad Hollinger, and all the sponsors that are making this possible. I’m going to do my best in every moment to get the best possible results.”
“I’m going in with my mind set on learning and going step-by-step, but I’m also focused on evolving throughout the season. The goal is to finish the races, get to know the car, and the circuits – especially the ovals.”
“INDYCAR is the most competitive and difficult category in the world, and the cars are the most demanding and require the maximum effort and preparation on my part. I am happy to take on this challenge and I’m motivated to perform well and repay those that have trusted me with this opportunity.
Team co-owner Ricardo Juncos said:
“To be able to communicate this news today is incredible for me and my team. It has been more than 20 years since I came to North American motorsports. It has been a long road of uninterrupted hard work in which I have been fulfilling different dreams, and to see this particular one becoming a reality is truly incredible.
“After a complete analysis of each of the driver options we had to drive our No. 78 car, we have made the decision that Agustín Canapino is the right choice. Both Brad [Hollinger] and I have full confidence in his ability.”
“With a very successful racing career in Argentina behind him, he exceeded all expectations when he trained at Sebring, and he’s confirmed that talent with what we’ve seen in his driving since.”
Fellow team owner Brad Hollinger stated:
Callum demonstrated significant potential during his inaugural 2022 campaign as he surprised the field with his strong pace while learning every track. Partnering Agustín with Callum gives Juncos Hollinger Racing an extremely talented and proven driver lineup.
“Agustin brings an unparalleled level of success in multiple race series to the team. His ability to adapt is exceptional and the significant experience he has accumulated winning multiple championships will complement Callum and the team nicely.”
“We look forward to competing at the tip of the arrow this year with the goal of multiple podiums.”
The 2023 NTT IndyCar Series season gets underway with the Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding from March 3-5.