Simmons gets Indy Lights seat

Simmons, who became the first driver to win back-to-back Barber Dodge titles, will team up with Indy Lights Rookie of the Year Jonny Kane.

He will be joined by brother and race engineer Chris.

'This is my best Christmas present ever,' said the 23-year-old.

'I'm looking forward to working with [team manager] Lou Schollum, Jonny, my brother Chris and the whole team.

'Team KOOL Green is a thoroughly professional organisation and the fact that Jonny won the Rookie of the Year this past season shows they're ready to challenge for the title and another rookie of year award.'

Simmons, a former national Quarter Midget champion, has previously competed in the Barber Formula Ford and Formula Dodge series, as well as the US FF2000 National Championship.

Last month, he competed in the Palmer-Audi Winter Series for Team USA, finishing eighth overall.

Team owner Barry Green said: 'We're delighted to have Jeff as a part, a big part, of our Indy Lights effort.

'He's not only been a champion, but a double champion, in one of the most competitive open wheel series in the country, and we think he's capable of producing the same kind of results in Indy Lights.'