Alpine F1 junior Lundgaard to make IndyCar debut at Indianapolis

The 20-year-old has previously tested with the team at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama back in July.

Lundgaard currently competes in F1’s main feeder series - Formula 2- which doesn’t resume until September 10 at Monza.

The Dane will drive alongside the team’s full-time drivers Graham Rahal and Takuma Sato.

Lundgaard replaces former Haas F1 reserve and test driver Santino Ferrucci in the #45 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Honda.

“I’m super excited to try Indy Car next week,” Lundgaard said of the announcement. “I’ve been very fortunate so far in my career to drive some incredible race cars and I’m looking forward to officially adding IndyCar to that list.

“In preparation for this race, I tested the car and it felt pretty awesome and I’m sure it will feel even better at a race weekend in race conditions alongside all the hugely talented drivers in the field. There’s been a lot of work to make this happen and prepare as best as possible and I’m feeling ready for the challenge.

“I’ve actually watched all IndyCar races this year, so to be given the chance to line up on the grid is amazing. There will be a lot to learn in a short space of time but trying something new excites me.”

Alpine team boss Davide Brivio reiterated that Lundgaard remains an important part of the French team’s academy.

“Christian remains an important part of the Alpine Academy as he has shown huge promise throughout his junior career,” Brivio added.

“Now, two seasons into FIA Formula 2, we are evaluating different options for the next stage, but for this particular moment we are just focusing on the present; enjoy a different type of car and environment, work hard and deliver on track.”