The INDYCAR SERIES and IU health announced on Wednesday that Angela Fiege MD has been appointed to the role of Director of Medical Services with INDY NXT presented by Firestone.
The series also announced the appointment of Sports neurologist Bert Vargas MD to the INDYCAR SERIES AMR Safety team.
Speaking about the news, Julia Vaizer MD, INDYCAR Medical Director said:
“Dr. Fiege continues to be a tremendous asset to the INDYCAR Medical Team, and I am thrilled she will be able to focus on the care and well-being of our INDY NXT by Firestone paddock.
Angela Fiege commented saying:
“The INDYCAR Medical Team and Indiana University Health have a long-standing history of providing exceptional medical care for our INDYCAR racing competitors. “It is an incredible honor to be a part of an organization that places such an emphasis on promoting the safety and well-being of its participants. I look forward to the opportunity to carry on this tradition and focus on the health of our INDY NXT drivers to prolong the duration of their careers.”
Speaking about the appointment of Vargas, Julia Vaizer said:
To have someone with Dr. Vargas’ experience with us week in and week out, providing post-incident evaluations and creating a comprehensive care plan to get our drivers back on track safely is such a valuable addition to our team. “He will also be available to the INDYCAR paddock to provide care for those that may be suffering from non-sports related neurological conditions that might affect performance.”
Speaking about his addition to the INDYCAR Medical Team, Bert Vargas MD said:
“It is an honor to be a part of the INDYCAR Medical Team and supplement the superior care that this group offers motorsports athletes and their teams. “INDYCAR is among a growing list of sports organizations that have seen value in incorporating sports neurologists at athletic events. I hope to provide neurotrauma expertise with the goals to help safeguard driver safety and performance and also help to ensure longevity in the sport for our athletes.”
INDYCAR SERIES President Jay Frye said:
The INDYCAR Medical team has played a paramount role in the series’ success both on and off the track and Dr. Fiege has been a key contributor. “Her background and experience will be a real asset as she focuses on INDY NXT by Firestone. The addition of Dr. Vargas is another example of INDYCAR’s commitment to safety as he contributes his guidance and expertise in an emerging area.”