The IndyCar Series announced that former Formula 1 driver Esteban Gutierrez will return to the #18 Dale Coyne Racing-Honda for the rest of 2017. Gutierrez was signed following regular DCR driver, Sebastien Bourdais’ Indianapolis 500 qualifying crash. The Mexican raced in Detroit following the Indy 500, but was unable to drive in Texas at the Rainguard 600 due to lack of oval clearance. Frenchman Tristan Vautier subbed in for Gutierrez.
Owner Dale Coyne expressed faith in Gutierrez’s abilities for the rest of the season. “We’re very pleased that Esteban can join us for the remainder of the season,” said Coyne.
“Esteban did a very good job in Detroit despite having a lot to learn in a short amount of time. He fit in very well with the team and I look forward to our next races with him, starting with Road America this week.”
Road America, a road course in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, is a circuit Gutierrez has experience on in lower formula and in testing. He raced at Road America in Formula BMW USA in 2007 and tested at Road America in an Indycar last week.
It remains unclear how the 25-year-old will do on ovals, Coyne won’t receive an answer until Iowa, the following race. It is also unclear whether testing at Road America is sufficient experience for the former F1 driver to gain oval clearance—the main reason for his non-participation in Texas.
Regardless, Gutierrez is excited for the opportunity. “I look forward to continue working with Dale Coyne Racing and Honda, I put my trust in them to achieve great results together. I cannot wait to jump in my UNIFIN No. 18 car at Road America this weekend.”
While Coyne says Gutierrez is suited and booted for the rest of the season, Bourdais has stated he wants to return by Sonoma, the last race of the year.
