Phinny joins Herta squad for Indy Lights, testing program

Ryan Phinny has joined Bryan Herta Autosport's Indy Lights team, in preparation for a planned move up to the Verizon IndyCar Series. George Clooney's Casamigos Tequila brand has aligned with Phinny as the title sponsor of the the No. 28 BHA/JMM with Curb-Agajanian entry.

The 24-year-old Californian is returning to open-wheel racing after stints in the Rolex Sports Car Series and American Le Mans Series. Prior to that, he raced in Formula BMW and Star Mazda, and also ran a single Indy Lights race in 2011 at Long Beach. Phinny will make his debut with the Herta squad at Toronto, and will also race at Mid-Ohio and Sonoma ahead of an off-season IndyCar testing program.

"I'm excited to get things going," Phinny declared. "I love the Toronto track, I've always had good runs at Mid-Ohio, and finishing out the season in California is the best yet. I know the BHA team well and I've known Bryan Herta for years. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity and Bryan's continued faith in my driving. This is an ideal scenario for me."

Team owner Herta added: "Ryan returns to Indy Lights with one of the most diverse resumes in the series," offered the Indy 500 winning team owner. "We are looking forward to running with him at Toronto and Mid-Ohio, and building on that program for the future."

Casamigos, which means "House of Friends," was launched in 2012 by George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman.

"I really want to thank Mike Meldman, George Clooney, and Rande Gerber for bringing me into the 'House of Friends' and giving me the opportunity to represent the Casamigos Tequila brand," Phinny continued. "I've always wanted to merge the Hollywood aspect of my life with racing, it's really a great fit. I'd also like to thank former Indy 500 champion Danny Sullivan for all the support and advice he has given me throughout my career thus far."