Agustin Canapino has signed a contract extension with Juncos Hollinger Racing to continue driving the No. 78 car in the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, team officials announced Oct. 18.
Argentine touring car legend and champion Canapino, 33, enjoyed a strong season in his first year of open-wheel racing in 2024. He produced a best finish of 12th three times, including in his series debut at St. Petersburg and in his first career oval race at Texas Motor Speedway. Canapino finished a close second in the series Rookie of the Year race.
"I am very happy to announce my continuation for 2024 in INDYCAR with Juncos Hollinger Racing,” Canapino said. “Many thanks to Ricardo (Juncos) and Brad (Hollinger) for continuing to place their trust in me and also to Hector Martinez Sosa, the Grupo Empresario Prieto and the INPROTUR for their support. After an incredible 2023 season, where we achieved good results, entered the Leaders Circle and consistently delivered strong performances, all in my first year in a single-seater, I am filled with joy and motivation to have the opportunity to keep growing as a driver and contribute to the continuous and remarkable evolution of the team.
“For 2024, the mindset will be different. What was once filled with doubt and uncertainty will now be a relentless pursuit of improving day by day, seeking results and consistency in each race. Of course, we don't forget that we are still a relatively new team competing against strong competitors, but we approach this challenge with the eagerness and hunger to aim higher every time. See you in St. Petersburg aboard the No. 78.”
Canapino will begin his second season at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on Sunday, March 10 on the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida.
“Agustín Canapino has been the surprise of the season for us, and we're absolutely delighted to have him back for 2024,” team co-owner Brad Hollinger said. “His determination and performance on the track have surpassed all expectations.”
Team co-owner Ricardo Juncos praised the support the team and fellow Argentina native Canapino received in 2023 from the National Institute for Tourism Promotion (INPROTUR) through the Visit Argentina brand. Juncos also saluted the efforts of INPROTUR Executive Secretary Ricardo Sosa in this partnership.
Part of the partnership included a livery for the 107th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge in May featuring the trademark light blue-and-white color scheme of the Argentine national soccer team, which won the World Cup in 2022. Canapino also carried a replica of the World Cup trophy on the grid of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” on Race Day.
"Agustín's incredible achievements on the track have not only exceeded our expectations but have also been a source of pride for our entire team,” Juncos said. “His energy, dedication and sportsmanship have united us and created a sense of camaraderie that is truly exceptional. We look forward to continuing this incredible journey together.”