David Malukas will advance from Indy Lights up to IndyCar in 2022, driving for Dale Coyne Racing in partnership with HMD Motorsports.
Malukas finished second in last year’s Indy Lights championship, earning seven wins and 16 podiums across the season.
He has run one IndyCar test session with the team already back in October, and will slot in alongside Takuma Sato who is taking over the #51 entry.
“I am very happy to join Dale Coyne Racing for my first season in the NTT IndyCar Series,” said Malukas in a release.
“It has been my dream since a little kid to get to this point and I am thrilled to get it started with this team. After my first test with DCR, I felt right at home.
“They are like family already and I am excited to see what we can accomplish. Bring on 2022!”
HMD Motorsports take the place of Vasser-Sullivan in the partnership of the #18 entry, and represents the outfit’s first foray into the premiere class.
HMD Motorsports has been gaining presence in the Indy Lights series recently, and is owned by Henry Malukas, the father of David.
The new partnership will give a new look to the entry, with the bright yellow and black design being replaced by red, black, and white colors.
“I’ve been following David in Indy Lights and I was very pleased by what I saw,” said team owner Dale Coyne. “He had a remarkable season and then he impressed everyone when we tested him back in October.
“It was his first time in an Indy car and he was the fastest one at the test, even ahead of a veteran driver. And, on top of it all, he comes from right down the road in Chicago, so it’s a perfect fit for us to run David next season.
“We’re also excited about our new partnership with HMD Motorsports. We can’t wait to start building on this relationship and we’re looking forward to a successful season together.”
Malukas’ first race will be at the season-opening round from St. Petersburg, Florida on February 27.
