First-timer de Vries sets the pace in IndyCar rookie test

©Instagram/HelioCastroNeves

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©Instagram/HelioCastroNeves

Reigning Formula E champion Nyck de Vries enjoyed a productive first IndyCar test with Meyer Shank Racing at Sebring on Monday.

The works Mercedes FE driver reeled in 62 laps of the Florida track and clocked in with the fastest time of the day, leading fellow rookies Callum Ilott (Juncos Hollinger Racing), Stoffel Vandoorne (Arrow McLaren SP) and Jack Aitken (Ed Carpenter Racing).

"Nyck delivered exactly what I would expect from a guy with his background," Michael Shank told RACER. "Impressive. He did very well today."

MSR's regular driver, four-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castro Neves, was on hand at Sebring to support de Vries' maiden IndyCar outing.

The 26-year-old is committed to defending his title with Mercedes in the FIA Formula E Championship, but Monday's test likely watered de Vries' IndyCar ambitions for the future.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.