Jack Harvey retains Schmidt Indy Lights seat for 2015

The Racing Steps Foundation-backed Briton ended 2014 equal on points with champion Gabby Chaves in the IndyCar feeder series following a late-season surge in his first year of racing in America, only losing the crown because the Colombian had more second-place finishes.

RSF founder Graham Sharp said Harvey would be Lights title favourite now.

"Jack took a bit of time to find his feet at the start of the 2014 season but soon showed himself to be a strong title contender," he said.

"So this year, having established a good working relationship with SPM, the expectation is for him to hit the ground running and position himself as the man to beat from the first round onwards."

Indy Lights introduces a new car for 2015 and is on course for healthier grids after a '14 season in which only eight drivers raced full-time.

"Anderson Promotions have done a fantastic job in raising the profile of the series with the new car, new teams and a growing grid," said Harvey.

"So for me, it's definitely the right place to be racing.

"It'll be tougher this year, for sure. But rest assured I'm up for the challenge."

Team co-owner Sam Schmidt said Harvey should take a sufficient step forward now he had US circuit knowledge that a stronger field would not be a problem.

"Jack did an excellent job from the time he arrived here," said Schmidt.

"He was always consistent in testing and had an excellent work ethic both on and off the track.

"I think his second year in the series will be key in that he will be returning to circuits he had to learn last year. So he can build on that experience this time around.

"The competition will be tough but I'm sure he can handle that."