Indy Pro 2000 champion Louis Foster will race for Andretti Autosport when he steps up to Indy Lights next year.
Foster graduates to the series with a $614,425 scholarship from winning the IP2000 title, which he did in his first season on the Road to Indy.
It was the 19-year-old’s first title in car racing, having come second in Ginetta Junior in 2018, third in British Formula 4 in 2019, third in BRDC British Formula 3 in 2020 and second in Euroformula last year.
“As a driver, you always want to be in the best teams and that’s certainly the case here,” said Foster.
“Even growing up in the UK, the name Andretti is one you come to learn very quickly in motorsport and that’s testament to what the likes of Mario and Michael achieved in their own racing careers. Knowing the team is run and supported by legendary drivers is certainly a plus.
“Not only that, but the Andretti family’s commitment to bringing on and helping young talent means this was the first choice for me in 2023.
“I really hope I can make Michael and my new team proud by getting up to speed as quickly as we were able to in IP2000 this season.
“Of course, I know Lights will be a massive step up again, but I’m ready for the challenge and confident with the resources this team has that I will be prepared and ready.
“I’m looking forward to testing with my new team-mates, engineers, mechanics and everybody else at the team that make this organisation great.
“The area the team covers is incredible. There’s not many teams where you can walk in to the shop and speak to so many people in so many series. There’s so much knowledge to tap into.
“I’m going to be 100% focused on my Indy Lights effort, but should the opportunity arise, it’s going to be invaluable experience to speak to the Andretti IndyCar drivers and see how the team works to gain some experience for the future.”
Foster is the second driver to sign with the team for 2023, as Hunter McElrea will remain part of Andretti’s Indy Lights line-up after becoming a race-winner in his rookie season this year.
“We are excited to have Louis join our team for 2023. He is just coming off of his IP2000 championship; we are looking forward carrying that momentum into his rookie Indy Lights season,” Andretti’s CEO Michael Andretti said.
“I think he will adjust quickly, and I look forward to seeing him take the next step in his American racing career.”
The scholarship prize for winning the Indy Lights title guarantees entry into three IndyCar races in 2024, including the Indianapolis 500.