Photo: Inidanapolis Motor Speedway
Victor Franzoni will make a surprise return to single-seater racing this year with Newman Wachs Racing in Formula Regional Americas.
The 24-year-old Brazilian used to be a frontrunner on the Road to Indy ladder, winning races in USF2000 over three campaigns, claiming the 2017 Indy Pro 2000 title and taking a single win in his sole Indy Lights season in 2018.
Last year he switched to sportscars, and came 26th in IMSA after two appearances in Juncos Racing’s Cadillac prototype.
Franzoni has collaborated in the past with NWR on development work on a number of cars, and knows the team well.
“I’m very excited for this last-minute announcement,” said Franzoni.
“I’ve been with Newman Wachs Racing for a long time, but we never had a chance to do a race weekend together as NWR.
“Finally, now it will happen! We did one test and it was great. I love the car and how the setup is working. We wish we had more time to work and test, but I’m sure we’ll be fine together. I can’t wait for next week’s season opener.”
Franzoni completes a two-car line-up with Jordan Missig, and will be returning to Formula 3 racing for the first time since a 2015 Brazilian F3 cameo and a second place finish in the 2014 F4 Brazil Open.
“I’m really happy to be adding Victor to our team,” NWR team manager Brian Halahan said.
“He is a proven winner and I hope to have a lot of success together over the season.
“I am extremely pleased with the team we have put together now with the addition of Victor and I believe he will be able to bring Jordan’s driving to another level. We’re coming off a highly successful test this week, so I think we’re ready to go.”