Ed Carpenter Racing has drafted in Oliver Askew for the upcoming REV Group Grand Prix at Road America after Rinus VeeKay was ruled out through injury.
VeeKay suffered a pushbike accident whilst out on a cycling trail during a routine training session and has since been under the care of IndyCar’s medical staff.
VeeKey underwent successful surgery to address a fractured left clavicle but he has not been given clearance to compete this weekend.
The 20-year-old will be re-evaluated ahead of the following round of the championship at Mid-Ohio on July 4.
“I want to wish Rinus a speedy recovery, I know the No. 21 Chevrolet will be missing him! said team owner Ed Carpenter. “It’s a shame that he has to miss this round, but he will come back strong.”
“I want to thank Oliver for being ready and able to step in and give the car a strong run.”
Askew stepped in for Arrow McLaren SP’s Felix Rosenqvist at the previous round in Detroit after the Swede suffered a heavy crash in the first race of the weekend.
“First off, I hope Rinus is doing well and that he has a quick recovery!” added Askew.
“I’m thankful that Ed and his ECR team trust me to take over the No. 21 Chevrolet this weekend. They have a strong program and I look forward to helping them in every way possible at Road America.”
“What happened was very unfortunate and definitely not the greatest timing!” added VeeKay.“ The surgery went well, I am not in any pain.
“I definitely wanted to be out there fighting for my place in the championship and driving the Direct Supply car.
“I will give it all I have and be ready for Mid-Ohio! I am very thankful for everyone at ECR that helped me and stayed up very late to get everything for the surgery arranged.
“I would also like to say a big thank you to everyone at OrthoIndy who got me all fixed up!”
