Hunter McElrea steps up to Indy Lights

New Zealander Hunter McElrea will make the step up to Indy Lights in 2022 with Andretti Autosport.

The California-born driver joins the championship-winning team after finishing third in the 2021 Indy Pro 2000 championship.

"It is with great pleasure that we welcome Hunter to our 2022 Indy Lights program," said J-F Thormann, President, Andretti Autosport.

"Hunter has been very competitive in his Road to Indy career, and we have high hopes that he can continue that pattern next year for us in Indy Lights."

McElrea won the Australian Formula Ford Championship in 2018 before winning the Road to Indy $200k Shootout, which secured him a spot on the USF2000 grid for 2019.

He finished second in the 2019 season by just five points, before finishing third in this year's Indy Pro 2000 championship with four wins and 13 podiums.

"It is a dream come true for me to join a team like Andretti Autosport," said McElrea.

"After my first days in an Indy Lights car and working with the team, it’s clear to me why they are one of the world’s most successful race teams."

"I cannot thank my sponsors, backers, and investors enough for making this possible for me."

"And of course, everyone at Andretti Autosport for welcoming me."

"This is the biggest opportunity I have ever gotten in my racing career to date, and I plan on making the most of it!"