Saavedra in at SPM for Pocono, Gateway

Sebastian Saavedra and AFS Racing are back to partner with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports in the No. 7 Honda formerly driven by Mikhail Aleshin. The open-wheel veteran will step into the car for this weekend's ABC Supply 500 at Pocono and return the following weekend for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 presented by Valvoline at Gateway Motorsports Park.

"I am very excited to be back with the SPM organization," said Saavedra, who made his debut in the No. 7 last month at Toronto (pictured). "It's another late call to jump in, but I take it with pride after a promising start of our relationship in Toronto. Looking forward to a challenging event as the 'Tricky Triangle' can be, and support Hinchcliffe in his pursuit of championship points. I'm thankful to my sponsors and my continued relationship with AFS Inc."

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Saavedra had hoped to be confirmed for the final four races left on the calendar to thoroughly audition for a full-time position in the No. 7 next year, but will use the pair of ovals to try and sway the decision in his favor.

"It's great to team up with Sam after the great rivalry we had in the Lights championship," said AFS owner Gary Peterson. "After Sebastian's positive performance in Toronto, the next two events will be an opportunity to show his strength on ovals and that he is a great candidate for the 2018 season with SPM."