Rossiter to IndyCar

UPDATE Rossiter's other primary focus in 2011 will be to develop the new Lotus 125, which strongly resembles a modern F1 car and is billed by the company as the ultimate track-day car. The car's first test is scheduled to take place at the Vallelunga circuit in Italy this week.

James Rossiter

Rossiter also is expected to participate in a number of long-distance races in the GT-Endurance and GT4-spec Evoras.

“It is great to be back with a manufacturer," the 27-year-old said. "It would be great to represent the Lotus brand out in the United States, but it all depends on finding the budget. IndyCar is where I want to be, but I'm also looking forward to using my single-seater experience developing the 125."

01/07/11 Ex-Formula 1 test driver James Rossiter could race in the IndyCar Series this season as part of a deal that has made him official test and development driver for Lotus, this week's AUTOSPORT magazine reveals.

Now his involvement with the marque has been cemented with a test contract that could encompass race outings with Lotus's IndyCar partner, KV Racing Technology. Rossiter tested for the team last winter but did not manage to complete a 2010 deal.

Lotus Motorsport director Claudio Berro said that he hoped Rossiter can be part of the company's IndyCar program in 2011.

"I would like to have James racing for us in IndyCar," he said. "It could happen this season, though most likely only on the road and street tracks." We have updated our 2011 IndyCar Silly Season page above.