Juncos Hollinger Racing and Agustin Canapino agreed to a one-year contract extension through the 2024 season on Wednesday.
The 33-year-old from Arrecifes, Argentina, finished 21st overall in the point standings and finished runner-up for Rookie of the Year behind Marcus Armstrong. His highest finish in 2023 was 12th three times at St. Petersburg, Texas, and Toronto.
“I am very happy to announce my continuation for 2024 in IndyCar with Juncos Hollinger Racing. Many thanks to Ricardo and Brad for continuing to place their trust in me, and also to Hector Martinez Sosa, the Grupo Empresario Prieto, and the INPROTUR for their support,” said Canapino.
After an incredible 2023 season, where we achieved good results, entered the Leaders Circle, and consistently delivered strong performances, all in my first year in a single-seater, I am filled with joy and motivation to have the opportunity to keep growing as a driver and contribute to the continuous and remarkable evolution of the team.”
Before making his way to IndyCar in 2023, Canapino ran a private test for Juncos Hollinger Racing at Sebring International Raceway in October 2022. Canapino is the first Argentina driver since Juan Manuel Fangio II in the 90s to compete in IndyCar full-time.
In the 2022 season, Canapino finished third in the Super TC2000 points standings. He won four poles, three races, and nine podium finishes in 20 races. He is a two-time Super TC2000 champion. In addition, Canapino competed in the Turismo Carretera series with five poles, three wins, and six podium finishes in 15 races, finishing third in the championship. Overall, Canapino won nine poles, six wins, and 17 podium finishes in 37 races.
Canapino has won a total of 16 championships in the Super TC2000, Turismo Carretera, Copa de Oro Rio Uruguay Seguros TC, Top Race V6, Torneo Clausura, and TC Pista. He has competed in 630 races with 107 poles, 103 wins, and 241 podium finishes.
“Agustin Canapino has been the surprise of the season for us, and we’re absolutely delighted to have him back for 2024,” said Juncos Hollinger Co-owner Brad Hollinger. “His determination and performance on the track have surpassed all expectations.”
With the contract signed, sealed, and delivered, Canapino is now focusing on the 2024 season. “For 2024, the mindset will be different. What was once filled with doubt and uncertainty will now be a relentless pursuit of improving day by day, seeking results and consistency in each race,” said Canapino.
Of course, we don’t forget that we are still a relatively new team competing against strong competitors, but we approach this challenge with the eagerness and hunger to aim higher every time. See you in St. Petersburg aboard the #78!”
The 2024 NTT IndyCar Series season starts on Sunday, March 10, 2024, racing the streets of St. Petersburg which will air live on NBC.
