Castroneves is more involved with the team’s driver decisions now that he’s part owner. Photo: Kevin Dejewski
Helio Castroneves is taking on a new role within Meyer Shank Racing next season, changing from a full time driver to a part owner and minority partner of the racing team.
His seat in the #06 entry has already been filled by the IMSA star driver Tom Blomqvist for 2024, but a decision has not yet been made for a driver for the team’s second car.
Simon Pagenaud fills that role officially for this year, but the veteran has been sidelined for the second half of the season due to an extended recovery from injuries suffered in early July.
His ongoing health concerns are complicating MSR’s decision about what to do with the #60, especially as the rest of the driver market is quickly being finalized.
When asked if he is part of the discussions with team owners Jim Meyer and Mike Shank about the decision for the team’s second driver, Castroneves said that he is providing his input, but is not the final decision-maker.
“Right now, we are discussing,” Castroneves told MotorsportWeek.com. “They are participating and asking me. I have the experience enough to give the truth.
“I’m not saying who it’s going to be, but I’m giving the facts about who I raced against and who they should be looking into. I’m not afraid to give my opinion, but I’m not the one making the call. I’m just helping them to use the tools to make the right decision.
“We’re still all wishing Simon a quick recovery. I spoke with Simon, and still some of the injuries inside of our heads you can’t predict, and you’re body can’t heal as fast as you want. We’re wishing him the best of course.
Pagenaud has not been at the track since his incident at Mid-Ohio in early July. Photo: Kevin Dejewski
“What’s going to happen in the future [with the #60 entry], we don’t know. As a team owner now, looking for options and hopefully we’ll find the right fit.
“But yes, absolutely [involved in that process].”
Multiple drivers have filled in driving the #60 in recent races, including Conor Daly, Linus Lundqvist, and Tom Blomqvist.
The latter two drivers are no longer available to drive the car full time next year, with Lundqvist signing with Chip Ganassi Racing and Blomqvist taking the other seat at MSR.
The decision is a complicated one for the team, and could depend on how quickly Pagenaud can shake off his lingering symptoms.
Keyword: Castroneves helping to decide second driver for MSR’s 2024 campaign