Vautier to replace Huertas for Indy 500 (Update)
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| Carlos Huertas |
This rumor is updated to 'fact' this morning. Verizon IndyCar Series driver Carlos Huertas has been ruled out of the 99th Running of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race with an inner ear condition, according to Dr. Terry Trammell, INDYCAR medical consultant. Huertas will have to undergo further evaluation before being cleared to return to Verizon IndyCar Series competition. The 23-year-old Colombian is out for the remainder of Indianapolis 500 on-track activities, including today's Coors Light Carb Day practice and the May 24 race.
Huertas was scheduled to start on the outside of Row 6 in the No. 18 Dale Coyne Racing Honda. The team will announce Huertas' replacement and the car will be moved to the last row of the 33-car field. It will start 32nd based on entrant points, according to Rules 8.1.8.6 and 8.1.8.6.1 of the Verizon IndyCar Series rulebook.
05/22/15 According to Indianapolis ABC affiliate WRTV reporter Dave Furst, Tristan Vautier will replace Carlos Huertas in the No. 18 Dale Coyne Honda for this weekend's 99th running of the Indy 500.
Furst speculates that Huertas does not have the stamina for a 500-mile race, or that he may be ill. However, when in doubt, follow the money. Huertas' check must have bounced, or he is scared for his life after seeing what happened to Hinchcliffe and the flying Chevys.