Haas Signs Former IndyCar Champion for F1 Return at 38

Better late than never! At the age of 38, James Hinchcliffe is finally getting his shot at Formula 1. Haas F1 is giving the Canadian driver, who currently works as an F1 analyst, this unexpected opportunity.

Hinchcliffe never actually dreamed of F1 as a kid. His heart was set on IndyCar from an early age, and that’s exactly where he built his successful career.

Formula 1 simply wasn’t part of his plan.

Until now.

Speaking exclusively to GPblog in Hungary, Hinchcliffe confirmed he’ll soon be climbing into an F1 car for a test with the Haas team. It’s an opportunity that’s come surprisingly late in his racing journey.

“It has a bit of a feature for F1 TV,” Hinchcliffe explained, quickly adding that this isn’t just for show. Haas wants to gather actual data during his session.

He’ll be driving what’s called a “TPC” (Testing Previous Car) – a two-year-old F1 machine.

“Half day, so yes [it is a proper test],” he confirmed.

This isn’t just a quick publicity stunt with a few laps around the track. “Not just ten laps, there is a run plan, the whole thing. Very cool, I am really excited,” the Canadian said, clearly thrilled about the opportunity.

The test is part of Haas F1’s expanded testing program this season, which they’ve been able to implement thanks to their partnership with Toyota.

Several Japanese drivers have already completed sessions in the old Haas car as part of this collaboration.

Now it’s Hinchcliffe’s turn to see what he can do behind the wheel of an F1 machine – proving it’s truly never too late to try something new in motorsport.