INDY: Strous to contest Indy Lights Series

Dutch driver signs for ASR-Nelan after making switch from Formula Atlantic. Junior Stous has become the latest European youngster to sign up to race in the Indy Lights series in 2009 after agreeing a deal to race with ASR-Nelan (formerly known as American Spirit Racing).

The 22-year-old Dutchman has spent the past two seasons racing in the USA in the Formula Atlantic championship. He finished fifth in the series last season, taking one race victory. He also has experience in Formula Renault in Europe, having taken part in the Eurocup as well as the Italian, Dutch, Nordic and Benelux series.

"I am very happy to race in the Firestone Indy Lights Series in 2009," Strous said. "My aim is to race in the (IndyCar Series) in the future. Insiders advised me to compete one year in the Indy Lights to gain experience on the oval tracks.

"I love to race in America. The fans are close and to race on the Indy Brickyard is one of my dreams."

Team owners Jon Lewis and Rick Nelan admitted their excitement at having Strous in their squad: “Junior brings a wealth of driver talent to our team. He's a proven winner and dedicated to being the best. We are looking forward to the 2009 season with Junior on board and we're going to give him everything we have to help him win the Championship."
 

For the second consecutive year, the ASR-NELAN will be fielded in partnership with Paul Diatlovich, whose PDM Racing will be the operational partner of the program. Veteran engineer Tim Wardrop will act as Chief Engineer for the Team.