Ernie Francis Jr., who earned national recognition when he won a race in Tony Stewart's all-star series over the summer, has been hired to drive in Indy Lights this season as part of IndyCar's Race for Equality & Change initiative.
Francis is a Florida native of Haitian descent who has been fast-tracked in IndyCar's ladder system. The 24-year-old will attempt to work his way up to become the first Black driver in America's top open-wheel series since George Mack in 2002.
"This is an incredible opportunity," Francis said in a statement. "After getting a taste last year and beginning to learn what open-wheel racing is all about, I found myself wanting more.