Former Indycar driver Robert Wickans is set to get back behind the wheel of a race car, confirming he will take part in the TCR class of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.
Three years ago Wickens had a crash a Pocono Raceway that left him with a spinal injury.
When he makes his return to the track Wickens will race a Hyundai Elantra N for Bryan Herta Autosport, alongside fellow Canadian Mark Wilkins.
Though he is looking forward to the opportunity, getting there hasn’t always been an easy journey.
“There’s a lot of emotions,” Wickens said during a news conference. “… A lot of times during my recovery I thought it was possible [and then] thought it wasn’t going to be possible. It took a lot of hard work and a lot of dedication, but I wouldn’t be here without the support of a lot of really good people.”
Wickens will return to racing at Daytona later this month, competing in the Rolex 24 Hours support race.
“I know I’m a competitor,” Wickens said. “If I don’t give myself a level of competition, I felt like I wouldn’t possibly work hard enough to get to the level where I am today. I don’t put myself in any category above anybody else who’s recovering from an injury or a setback in their life, but it’s been quite the ride. Here we are, and I’m happy to be here.”
The car will have a modified steering wheel, with hand-controlled brake and throttle systems, that can be turned on and off during driver changes.
“Hand controls are an open book as far as what you need, and every driver is different,” Wickens said. “We’re trying to make small improvements and trying to make it a little more comfortable and more consistent.
“It would be awesome to race in the Indy 500. At the same time, I’m interested in exploring new avenues. I’ve never really done any sports car driving. Racing at the highest levels of IMSA in the WeatherTech series would be amazing.”
Wickens will get back on track at Daytona, 21 January, for the Roar Before the Rolex 24.
Main image: IMSA