Pato O’Ward will contest his first full season of Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires in 2018 after signing on to drive Andretti Autosport’s No.27 entry.

The 18-year-old Mexican, who last year dovetailed a four-race Lights program with Team Pelfrey with winning IMSA Prototype Challenge title with Performance Tech Motorsports, will suit up alongside Andretti returnees Colton Herta, Dalton Kellett and Ryan Norman.

“First off, I want to thank the whole Andretti Autosport team for the incredible opportunity they are giving me,” said O’Ward.

“I’m really happy to be with this powerhouse team and I will give this my all to deliver results. I have been working really hard with Michael [Andretti] and J-F [Thormann] to put this deal together, and I’m more than proud to be a part of such a prestigious team like Andretti. I can’t wait to start working with everyone and I’m sure its going to be an awesome year, so lets go get it!”

O’Ward finished second in the 2016 Pro Mazda Presented by Cooper Tires season, and Michael Andretti said that he is looking forward to watching the teenager’s talent develop.

“We’re excited to have Pato join our Indy Lights family in 2018,” he said. “Pato had a strong, successful Pro Mazda season in 2016 and has been working hard to make the jump to Indy Lights. I’m confident his talent will blend well with Colton, Dalton and Ryan, and I’m looking forward to seeing our drivers on the podium this season.”