HOMESTEAD, Fla. – Team Pelfrey IL announced today that primary sponsors, Gap Guard and Topo Chico, will continue to stand behind the 2017 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona Champion Pato O'Ward as he moves through the Mazda Road to Indy Presented by Cooper Tires ranks.

O’Ward will be participating in spring training with Team Pelfrey IL at Homestead Miami Speedway as well as securing a spot on the grid for the first Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires race of the season in St. Petersburg, Fla. on March 10-12.

“I am back with Team Pelfrey in Indy Lights for the first official Series test and for the first race of the season in St. Petersburg,” commented O’Ward. “A big thank you goes to the creator of Gap Guard, better known as Dale Pelfrey, once again for the opportunity and the whole Team Pelfrey crew as well for the continuous support they have given me the last few years.”

O’Ward will pilot the No. 3 Topo Chico/Gap Guard Mazda alongside his Colombian teammate, Juan Piedrahita in the signature yellow #PelfreyPower machine.

“We are very excited to confirm Pato on the Indy Lights front,” stated Team Pelfrey IL team manager, Gary Neal. “Not only does this mean we have an exceptionally talented driver, but it’s also great to see the Team Pelfrey ladder system in full swing. We are looking forward to a strong outing at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.”

The 2017 season is scheduled to commence with a doubleheader race weekend through the streets of St. Petersburg Fla. March 10-12. Follow Team Pelfrey throughout the season via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram via @TeamPelfrey or by using the hashtag #PelfreyPower.