TORONTO, ON, July 13, 2013 – Panther Racing announced today that reining Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Carlos Munoz will drive the No. 4 National Guard Chevrolet during Sunday’s race two of the Honda Indy Toronto. Munoz is replacing National Guard driver Ryan Briscoe, who sustained a broken right wrist during the first race of weekend on Saturday and is not medically cleared to drive.
Today’s race will be Munoz’s second career IndyCar Series start after the 21-year-old started on the front row of the 97th Indianapolis 500 and finished runner-up, earning him top rookie honors.
“Carlos is a tremendous young driver with a great deal of talent,” Panther Managing Partner John Barnes said. “We’re excited that he was available to drive the National Guard Chevrolet today on such short notice, and I’m sure this will be a great learning experience for him. We’re obviously wishing Ryan (Briscoe) a speedy recovery, but also very happy to make the most of this opportunity with Carlos today.”
Munoz and his Andretti Autosport team are the current Firestone Indy Lights championship leaders and have captured three victories, two poles, six Top Five and eight Top Ten finishes thus far in 2013.
“I have to thank John Barnes, Panther Racing and the National Guard for this opportunity,” Munoz said. “It’s unfortunate that it comes as a result of Ryan being injured, but I’m excited about making the most of this opportunity. Toronto is a challenging circuit, but just watching practice and qualifications the last few days it’s obvious that the National Guard Chevy is fast and I hope to help bring the team a great end to the weekend today.”
