PREMA splits with Cannon

PREMA Racing and Michael Cannon, its new head of engineering, have parted ways.

The championship-winning race engineer and Indianapolis 500 specialist joined PREMA during the offseason after leaving A.J. Foyt Racing, which underwent a significant transformation with the Canadian as its technical director.

The brief engagement between PREMA and Cannon, who was present for the January 10 team launch held at GM’s Charlotte Technical Center, creates a significant void for the Italian junior open-wheel squad. With Cannon installed, the team run by Rene Rosin and his partner Angelina Ertsou shortened its learning curve by a considerable amount.

Without Cannon, who isn’t expected to remain on the market for long, PREMA will likely face a steeper learning curve on ovals. Cannon’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, but it also hired a number of talented engineers with IndyCar experience, including the highly-rated Steve Barker, who are skilled and capable of bringing the program into a competitive state.