The Road to Indy just got more resources.
IndyCar announced today that it would be adding another layer to the developmental class of racing, joining the other three minor league tours, meant for drivers as young as 14 years old.
Starting in 2022, the USF Juniors Series will provide young drivers with the opportunity to earn a scholarship into the USF 2000 series (equivalent to High A baseball) to eventually make their way into IndyCar.
“There are numerous routes into the Road to Indy, but it has become apparent that one additional entry level step was needed,” Dan Andersen, Owner and CEO of Andersen Promotions, said in a press release. “Our current first step – the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship – has become extremely more competitive from a global scale of driving talent than what used to be considered as entry level.”
The goal of the USF Juniors tour will be to give drivers the opportunity to race an IndyCar-style car at the entry level.
And with USAC sanctioning the series, it could be expected that there’s a possibility that some of the young guns of that world might try their hand here, depending on their situation, obviously.
“Our goal with USF Juniors is to provide a true entry level series that is professionally managed where drivers, teams and parents can focus on training and racing via shorter, more economical events, while also lowering the spotlight on young drivers that often occurs on INDYCAR race weekends,” Anderson said.
“Our entry level drivers will learn the skills needed for them to move onto the Road to Indy, with less pressure. The new series will be choreographed with our current programs and tremendous partnership with Cooper Tires. The feedback I have received from team owners has been nothing but positive.”
The schedule for the series, along with the rest of the Road To Indy tours will be announced at a later date.
