IndyCar: No changes for Ed Carpenter Racing in 2021

Conor Daly is set to return for another year as Ed Carpenter Racing’s road and street course driver and third Indy 500 driver in the 2021 IndyCar season.

After a successful first season with the team, Conor Daly is set to return to Ed Carpenter Racing for another year in the 2021 IndyCar season.

Daly is set to continue his role as the full-time road and street course driver of the #20 Chevrolet, and he is set to again compete for the team in a separate car in the Indy 500.

Team owner Ed Carpenter is set to pilot the #20 Chevrolet in only the oval races on the schedule for the eighth straight season while Rinus VeeKay is set to return for a second season as the full-time driver of the #21 Chevrolet.

The 2021 schedule features 13 road and street course races and four oval races, meaning that Daly is set to compete in a total of 14 events for the team.

Here is what Daly had to say about his return to the team in a team release.

"“It feels incredible to have another year together with the U.S. Air Force and Ed Carpenter Racing. Continuity has always been helpful for me in my career; the fact that we are able to hit the ground running in 2021 already having experience together gives me a lot of confidence. Every day we learn more and develop a stronger relationship.“This would not be possible without the support of the U.S. Air Force, who have been an incredibly supportive and loyal partner. I want nothing more than to win races and compete for the entrant championship for the Airmen, the guys at ECR and my boss Ed, who has become a true friend of mine. I can’t wait to get back to work!”"

Here is what Carpenter had to add.

"“It is a very exciting day to be able to announce the return of both the U.S. Air Force and Conor to Ed Carpenter Racing! We are looking forward to the 2021 NTT INDYCAR SERIES, having the same driver lineup to continue our progression back to a race-winning and championship-contending organization.” He continued, “We are very grateful for the support of U.S. Air Force and honored to represent everything that they stand for. We’re thankful for the opportunity to inspire and engage the next generation of men and women who join the U.S. Air Force!”"

Maj. Jason Wyche, Chief, Air Force National Events Branch at Air Force Recruiting Service, added the following.

"“This partnership draws a parallel with how we fly, fight and win. Both organizations rely on the principles of science, technology, engineering and math to accomplish the mission. The technology that goes into these cars is similar to what we rely on when flying our fighter jets. Also, teamwork is especially important with the Air Force just like at the Indy 500. Everything just ties in perfectly with how we accomplish our respective missions. That’s what makes this a great partnership!”"