After achieving one goal of a full Firestone Indy Lights season in 2012, Juan Pablo Garcia will compete for Team Moore Racing in the 12-race 2013 season with the championship as his goal.
The 25-year-old from Mexico City began his professional racing career in 2006 and has competed in several other series, including Formula Renault 2000, A1 Grand Prix and British Formula Three. Garcia competed in one Firestone Indy Lights race in 2009, two in 2010 and looked to be heading to a full season in 2011 with Jensen Motorsport before exiting the team after four races.
Last year, with newcomer Jeffrey Mark Motorsport, he gathered nine top-10 finishes with a best of seventh at St. Petersburg and Long Beach.
“I’m looking forward to start working with Team Moore Racing,” Garcia said. “Last year I had the opportunity to race for the first time on a full-season basis in Firestone Indy Lights, and I believe that experience will help me to take advantage of the competitive car that Team Moore Racing is preparing for me.”
Team Moore Racing, entering its seventh season in Firestone Indy Lights, recorded two wins, 11 top fives and 20 top 10s last season with drivers Gustavo Yacaman and David Ostella. The team has had a driver finish top four in the championship each of the past three seasons, and is looking to challenge for the title with Garcia.
“Firestone Indy Lights is the last stop on the way to the IZOD IndyCar Series, and I believe with our technical support and TMR prepared cars Juan Pablo will be in position to showcase his talents,” team owner Mark Moore said. “Juan Pablo will also start the season better prepared than ever before. We have a very dedicated test program for the preseason and during the season, where we will fine tune our race craft together.
“I believe Team Moore Racing and Juan Pablo Garcia have a lot to look forward to in the upcoming 2013 Firestone Indy Lights series.”
The season kicks off on the streets of St. Petersburg, Fla., on March 23 as part of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg race weekend.