Newman Wachs to return, joins 2017 USF2000 series

The former Atlantic Series team, which was formed by the late Hollywood icon Paul Newman and his former Can-Am and Trans-Am rival, Eddie Wachs, was originally formed in 2005.

NWR provided JR Hildebrand with his first full season in Atlantics, guided Simona De Silvestro to her first victory and finished 1-2 in the final Atlantic season of 2009 with current BMW IMSA ace Jon Edwards edging teammate Jonathan Summerton.

The team then shut down as the championship dissolved. However, Wachs vowed to return and the team is due to return next year as the new Tatuus USF-17 is introduced.

Said Wachs: “We’re delighted to be back and we look forward to the continued success we are used to seeing.”

Added Halahan, who ran the team from its inception: “I am very excited that Newman Wachs Racing will be making its return to racing in the 2017 USF2000 Championship.

“It has been a long seven years away, but I never actually left Newman Wachs Racing. Eddie has been a great person to work for over the last 10 years.

“I’ve been involved in his other businesses and taking care of his vintage cars. His passion for the sport and drive to win are unquestionable, so I know I will have everything we need to succeed.”

Dan Andersen, owner and CEO of Andersen Promotions that runs the Mazda Road To Indy – USF2000, Pro Mazda and Indy Lights – commented: “Adding the respected Newman Wachs Racing to our 2017 USF2000 paddock is awesome news. “Eddie Wachs and his group, including the highly regarded Brian Halahan, are sure to make an immediate impact and raise the caliber of our competition.

“As an entrepreneur myself, I have the utmost respect for Eddie. He is an entrepreneur’s entrepreneur. I am delighted they will be campaigning their four USF-17 cars with us next season.”

Alan O’Leary, a 25-year veteran in U.S. open-wheel racing, will engineer the cars, while Ray Hook will be fabricator and machinist.