James Hinchcliffe cleared for IndyCar return at Road America test

The Canadian has been working on rebuilding his fitness ever since the May 18 accident, and his recovery included two surgeries.

"I expect to be grinning like an idiot for the first few runs," said the Schmidt driver, who made an unofficial return to competition at last week's Dan Wheldon Memorial Pro-Am Karting Challenge.

"This is obviously the day that has been the goal and motivation to get through the last four months.

"And the fact that it is at Road America, one of my favourite road courses in the country, makes it that much better.

"I'm under no illusions that [the test] won't be a massively difficult day.

"Going to a track we haven't run, on top of the physical stress of getting back in (a car), but that's OK. I'm definitely ready for a little hard work."

Hinchcliffe won at Road America in Pro Mazda in 2005, and has also competed at the venue in Atlantics and sportscars.

Joining him at the upcoming test will be Andretti Autosport's Marco Andretti and Ryan Hunter-Reay, Dale Coyne Racing's Tristan Vautier and KVSH Racing's Sebastien Bourdais.

Ten cars tested at the track earlier this week, marking the first time that IndyCars have run on the circuit since 2007, with unofficial times putting 2015 champion Scott Dixon at the top of the timesheets.

The series is scheduled to race at the venue next June.