Windom to make Freedom 100 return with Belardi, Byrd

Short track star Chris Windom will get a second chance to compete in the Indy Lights series’ crown jewel, the Freedom 100 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with an entry filed by Belardi Auto Racing and Jonathan Byrd's Racing.

A crash in testing ahead of the 2018 race kept Windom from participating in the event, making his return for a second attempt at his first Freedom 100 a welcome opportunity.

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“After a disappointing ending to last year’s run for the Freedom 100, I’m very thankful to be given another opportunity to go back to Indy with the Belardi/Byrd team,” Windom said. “I really enjoy working with everyone on the team and I feel like we can be strong contenders for this year’s race. The Freedom 100 is obviously Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires’ most prestigious race and something that will be special to be a part of.

"I have to thank Belardi Auto Racing and Jonathan Byrd’s Racing along with NOS Energy Drink for giving me the opportunity, and I hope that I can give them a great showing on one of the biggest stages in racing.”

Driven by an ongoing initiative to bring short track talent to the Speedway, David Byrd is confident Windom belongs among IndyCar’s next-generation open-wheel drivers.

“Things did not go as we had planned last May, but Chris was quick out of the box and learned a lot about what to do and what not to do at the Speedway,” Byrd said. “I’m grateful to be able to work with Brian and the Belardi Auto Racing team again to give Chris another much-deserved shot at the Freedom 100, as we work to keep a multi-time USAC national series champion on the Road To Indy.

"In addition, we’re excited to have the support of NOS Energy Drink in this endeavor, as they have quickly become a massive supporter of Chris and of short track racing.”