Hildebrand returns for Phoenix this weekend
JR Hildebrand has been given the all-clear to return to IndyCar competition following the hand fracture that sidelined him for last weekend’s race at Barber Motorsports Park.
Hildebrand, who turned the unofficial fastest lap of Phoenix in February’s test, will be partnered by team owner Ed Carpenter, who steps into the cockpit of the #20 for his first race of the season, as Spencer Pigot continues to be his road/street course driver. Hildebrand still attended the Barber race, as adviser to his sub in the #21 car, Zach Veach.
Hildebrand who incurred the injury on the last lap of the Toyota GP of Long Beach, commented: “I’m certainly anxious to get back in the car. I feel like I’m far enough along to be able to go for it this weekend in Phoenix.
“I know we’ve got a good program; I want to be able to come through for the team at an event where we should be strong.
“The competition there is tough, I expect we will really have to be on our game over the course of the weekend. Everyone has been super helpful and I appreciate the hard work that everyone has put in to be able to get me back in.”
Carpenter added: “I am super excited to get back to Phoenix and start my driving season. We have had several tests since my last race in Pocono, but it will be good to get back to a race weekend as a driver.
“We had a great open test at Phoenix in February and feel very confident heading into this weekend.”
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