Luis Diaz on standby for home debut
Toyota Atlantic front-runner Luis Diaz, 24, is set to make his Champ Car debut in the season finale in Mexico City if Adrian Fernandez fails to recover from the injuries he sustained in a multi-car shunt in Surfer's Paradise in time
Although Fernandez is determined to compete in the first CART race to be held at the modified Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, he is anxious to ensure that there would be a Mexican driver for the home fans to support in his absence.
The seat is being filled by super sub Max Papis for this weekend's Fontana race, but he is unlikely to drive in the season finale even if Fernandez is not race fit for the race on November 17th because of the desire for a Mexican link.
"I hope that I will be able to make Mexico City," said Fernandez. "If I am not cleared to drive, then we have to be prepared as a team and we want to have a Mexican driver in our car. Luis is the obvious choice."
Diaz will test the Fernandez's Lola-Honda at California Speedway next Tuesday (5th Novemeber), and is looking forward to his first drive in a Champ Car.
"Obviously I am thrilled about taking my first laps in a Champ Car on Tuesday," said Diaz. "This is something that I have dreamed about ever since seeing Adrian race. He paved the way for Mexican drivers to compete outside of our country, and it will be an honour to step into his car next week."
The final decision on Fernandez's fitness is expected to be made next week.
Be part of the Autosport community
Join the conversationShare Or Save This Story
Subscribe and access Autosport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments