British race car driver Toby Sowery, renowned for his indomitable performance in the previous season with Dale Coyne Racing, has inked a promising deal with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL). With no racing seats vacant for the year 2025, this strategic move ensures Sowery’s continued involvement in the high-octane world of racing, albeit in a different capacity. He now steps into the pivotal role of the first reserve and development driver for RLL.
RLL has announced that Sowery will act as an R&D development driver on Honda’s innovative Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) simulator. His role will encompass assisting the engineering department in testing and providing crucial feedback regarding hybrid deployment strategies on the simulator. Additionally, he will be responsible for offering insights from the DiL concerning RLL vehicle models.
Sowery’s new role comes at a critical juncture when RLL has been churning through a roster of drivers in the recent past. His position thus puts him in the prime spot to step up to the plate should the opportunity present itself.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Sowery stated, “Being a part of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, as a reserve and test driver, enables me to build on my IndyCar debut from last year. Moreover, it allows me to contribute directly to the team’s ongoing growth and triumphs.”
He further added, “This collaboration with RLL, a team that has been a pillar of IndyCar racing for over 30 years, is a monumental privilege. I am dedicated to pushing my limits, learning from the industry’s veterans, and evolving into a driver who can indeed make a significant impact. I am grateful to the entire RLL team, especially Bobby and Mike, for their trust in me.”
At 28, Sowery has been keeping himself occupied with sports car racing while anticipating his next opportunity in open-wheel racing. His recent victory at the esteemed Dubai 24 Hours race underscores his adaptability and mental fortitude, qualities that RLL values deeply.
Bobby Rahal, expressing his excitement, said, “We’re thrilled to have Toby on board with RLL. His exceptional talent, resilience, maturity, and recent success in endurance racing, especially his win at the prestigious Dubai 24 Hours, speak volumes about his adaptability and mental toughness. These qualities align with our values at RLL. We believe Toby’s experience and versatility will bolster our team as we strive for competitive excellence this season.”
Sowery’s new role at RLL exemplifies the dynamism and adaptability of racing professionals as they navigate the changing terrain of the industry, while his appointment promises exciting times ahead for the team and its supporters.