Brabham aims for Indy 500 after Andretti test
Matthew Brabham completes his maiden test in an IndyCar
Matthew Brabham is eyeing a seat in next year’s Indianapolis 500 after successfully completing his first full IndyCar test with Andretti Autosport.
Brabham shared the seat of the Dallara-Honda with team regular Marco Andretti at Iowa today, signalling his first serious test of an IndyCar.
Although times between the pair were not representative as the team ran different set-ups for the two drivers, Brabham is said to have impressed the squad with his quality feedback.
“I had an absolute blast today, I have wanted to drive an IndyCar for so long now and to finally get a chance was awesome,” Brabham said.
“Driving an IndyCar in anger for the first time was definitely different to what I am used to, the speed, power and downforce were a big jump.
“But it did not take me too long and I was up to speed quickly and started to work through the program the team wanted to do.
“It was great working with Marco and drawing off his experience, a short oval is not the easiest place to drive for the first time in one of these cars.
Brabham is eyeing a possible Indy 500 start next year
“But with his and the teams’ help it all came together pretty quickly for me.”
Aside from the Andretti crew, a number of key onlookers attended the test including representatives from Honda and Firestone.
A statement from Brabham confirmed that there are plans afoot for the 21-year-old to secure a one-off program to run at the 2016 Indy 500.
“It is the aim of Brabham and his team to secure a program to compete in the 2016 Indianapolis 500 that, in the 100th race will commemorate the 55th anniversary of Sir Jack’s historic maiden foray to America,” it read.
“Should he achieve this, Matt would become just the third third generation driver to do so – standing alongside the Andrettis with this honour.”
Matthew Brabham had competed in the opening three rounds of the Indy Lights Series earlier this year before funding dried up.
He ran with the Andretti Autosport Indy Lights team in 2014, winning a race on the Indianapolis road course on the way to fourth in points.
The success followed winning seasons in the USF2000 and Pro Mazda Road to Indy classes.
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