BRABHAM SIGNS ON FOR INDY LIGHTS RETURN

Australian Matthew Brabham, grandson of Sir Jack Brabham is returning to open-wheeler racing and the Indy Lights Series in America with Andretti Autosport.

Brabham and Andretti have a history in the Road to Indy categories competing in both the Indy Pro 2000 and Indy Lights championships together.

The third-generation racer won the Indy Pro (formerly Pro Mazda) title with the team in 2013 before finishing fourth in Indy Lights the following year.

In recent years Brabham has been competing in Stadium Super Trucks, however has elected to return to his open-wheel roots and Andretti to compete in the second-tier IndyCar Series.

“I’m extremely grateful to Michael, JF and everyone who is a part of Andretti Autosport,” said Brabham.

“They have given me many great opportunities over the years, including this one.

We have accomplished amazing results together. We have won a total of 14 races and a championship in the past.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic to be back racing full time in a proper open-wheel car again with a top team.

“I feel it’s where I’ve always belonged. I’m willing to give everything I have at this and more to follow my dream of getting back into the IndyCar Series.”

Brabham will drive the number 83 machine throughout 2022 and Andretti Autosport team owner Michael Andretti is delighted to sign Brabham up once more.

“We’re really excited to have Matty back in our Indy Lights line-up,” said Andretti. “He’s always shown natural talent behind the wheel and was a great Road to Indy contender for us in the past.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing what our Indy Lights line-up accomplishes this year as all of their talents continue to grow.”

Brabham completes a very accomplished four-car line-up including adopted Aussie Hunter McElrea.

McElrea finished third in Indy Pro 2000 last year and will make his debut in Indy Lights behind the wheel of the famous #27.

Reigning Indy Pro 2000 champion Christian Rasmussen, while promising youngster Sting Ray Robb returns for a second crack at the title.

Brabham first shot onto the Road to Indy ladder with the USF2000 Championship win in 2012 with four wins and 11 podium finishes.

The 2012 USF2000 scholarship propelled the Australian-American to the Indy Pro 2000 field where a staggering 13 victories, 10 pole positions and 15 podiums led to the 2013 title and the chance to compete in Indy Lights for the 2014 season.

That year he collected one victory, one pole position and 10 top-five finishes in 17 Indy Lights race starts.

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