Article via Racer.com

James Roe wants to be an IndyCar Series driver. The Irishman just completed his third season of training in the Indy NXT series with Andretti Global and took the first step in the graduation process by testing an IndyCar on Monday with Juncos Hollinger Racing.

“Awesome day, just great to get in it and feel it out,” Roe told RACER. “Went through a hell of a lot of changes, more than I ever thought were possible today with Juncos crew trying everything out. Think we found some things there. Overall, I think it was pretty positive. Best lap was with no hybrid deploy, no overtake, so put all that in and we should be right there. I want to do more. I said to Ricardo (Juncos) on the in lap, ‘Let’s go test tomorrow!’”

Held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course, Roe produced a top lap of 1m 11.600s, which was in the ballpark of fellow NXT runner Lochie Hughes who delivered a 1m 11.354s tour for Andretti Global. Among the first-time runners, Rahal Letterman Lanigan’s Mick Schumacher was the fastest with a 1m 10.980s.

Juncos Hollinger closed the 2025 season with road course speed as its biggest competitive deficit. The test with Roe helped the team to work through a number of chassis setup ideas that could help the program next year and left JHR’s founder feeling impressed by the 27-year-old’s contributions.

“I think he did a fantastic job in his first-ever IndyCar test, showing a high level of professionalism both inside and outside the car,” said Juncos, who presided over the test. “Compared to other drivers running under the same conditions, James was immediately on pace within his first two outings, showing how quickly he adapted to the new car.

“What stood out to me the most was his feedback and the confidence he showed when communicating with the engineers. He was already guiding them in the right direction, demonstrating not only the right personality and approach but also a strong technical understanding of the race car. I see great potential for him in IndyCar if he’s surrounded by the right program and supported by a well-planned, long-term strategy. Our whole team enjoyed working with him, and we’re excited to see where his development takes him next.”

Finding the right program is going to be hard for Roe as most of the available seats have drivers earmarked for 2026.

“Honestly, I’ll take whatever I can get right now,” he said. “You know, beggars can’t be choosers. At times, it’s hard to know where to driver market is at. Me and my sponsors said we’d get through the test and then then chat about where we can go. I’d take an Indy 500-only program. I’d take a road course-only program, a full season, if I could. More testing. Whatever we can. Today was about getting out and seeing where we’re at and I think it’s looking pretty promising if the right seat opens.”

On Monday, James Roe took part in a one-day INDYCAR test on the IMS Road Course. This was his first chance to drive an Indy car, as he piloted the #76 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet.

The test was an integral step in Roe’s pursuit of a full-time INDYCAR seat, as well as the team’s commitment to develop young talent moving up from INDY NXT. Having now done a successful test, it shows his ability to provide engineering feedback at the highest level.

“It was great to have James with us for Monday’s test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway,” said Ricardo Juncos, President of Juncos Hollinger Racing. “I think he did a fantastic job in his first-ever INDYCAR test, showing a high level of professionalism both inside and outside the car. Compared to other drivers running under the same conditions, James was immediately on pace within his first two outings, showing how quickly he adapted to the new car.”

“What stood out to me the most was his feedback and the confidence he showed when communicating with the engineers,” continued Juncos. “He was already guiding them in the right direction, demonstrating not only the right personality and approach but also a strong technical understanding of the race car. I see great potential for him in INDYCAR if he’s surrounded by the right program and supported by a well-planned, long-term strategy. Our whole team enjoyed working with him, and we’re excited to see where his development takes him next.”

It was truly a great day on track, and a full circle moment for me to finally get in an Indy car, something I have dreamed of for many years,” said James Roe. “The test left me hungry for more.”

“We got through many test items for the team, and I was comfortable and felt right at home. There were some issues with the hybrid system in the afternoon that kept us from showing the true speed. However, we know we would have been in the top four of the day for sure. Bottom line, I felt really good out there and the Indy car feels like home.”

Looking towards 2026, Roe Autosport is analyzing all options in the coming weeks, with a variety of great opportunities on the table.

This incredible momentum, on and off the track, is powered by the unwavering support of our partners. Thank you for your dedication in 2025 and buckle up for next season!

August 19, 2025 — INDY NXT driver James Roe is proud to welcome Merlo America as an official sponsor, beginning with the upcoming Milwaukee Mile event and continuing into a full-season partnership for 2026.

This weekend’s race will be the debut for Merlo America on Roe’s Andretti Global ride. Beyond the circuit, Roe will also connect with Merlo America’s network of dealers and customers at CONEXPO 2026, North America’s largest construction trade show held in Las Vegas between March 3-7, 2026.

“Merlo America’s commitment to innovation and performance mirrors James’s own unstoppable approach to racing,” said Cole Renken, General Manager for Merlo America. “We hope that having our support, starting at Milwaukee and building into next season, will be a welcome boost as James pushes for victories and continues climbing the ladder toward INDYCAR.” 

The announcement comes as Roe competes in his third season of INDY NXT by Firestone, where he has already achieved multiple podiums, a pole position, and a lap record. In addition to his open-wheel campaign with Andretti Global, Roe is participating in select IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship events with Pratt Miller Motorsports.

Backed by over 60 years of innovation and craftsmanship, Merlo America represents the Merlo Group in the U.S. market, and through this collaboration with Roe and his racing partners, the brand is set to reach an even broader audience across North America.

“I’m super excited to team up with Merlo America for the Milwaukee race and beyond,” said Roe. “Their commitment to innovation, technology and excellence really resonates with me. I believe that together, we can push boundaries and elevate each other both on and off the race track”

Roe’s determination and winning mindset have made a strong impression on the motorsport community, showcasing both his talent behind the wheel and his relentless drive to succeed. The Merlo America team is excited to stand trackside in Milwaukee, cheering James on and celebrating their first race of the partnership.

“At Merlo America, we pride ourselves on machines that elevate, and we look forward to supporting Roe, a motorsport star who expertly accelerates on some of the world’s fastest tracks. This partnership is raising performance to a new level, both on the job site and the podium, and is the start of something remarkable,” Jennifer Brigman, Vice President of Strategy and Operations at Merlo America.

The two-day race weekend will feature a busy Saturday, with a morning practice (9 a.m. ET, FS2) that leads into single-car qualifying (3:30 p.m. ET, FS2). Sunday’s 90-lap race will air on FS1 starting at 11:30 a.m. ET. SiriusXM will also host live IndyCar Radio coverage of all sessions on XM Ch. 218. At last year’s Milwaukee event, Roe qualified and finished P6, to add to his multiple top-ten finishes for the season.

For more information about Merlo America, visit www.merloamerica.com, and to follow James Roe’s racing journey, visit www.jamesroejr.com.

Media Contact: 

Liza Markle

liza@jamesroejr.com

INDY NXT™ by Firestone racing driver James Roe and Vortex Companies are excited to announce their new partnership for the 2025 race season. Vortex, a global leader in trenchless water and sewer infrastructure solutions, will also support Roe in his IMSA sportscar races.

In his third year with the famed Andretti Global, Roe kicks off the INDY NXT season this weekend at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Vortex will ride with Roe’s No. 29 Topcon Andretti Dallaa, as he looks to add to his podium and pole tally from last year.

“I’m beyond thrilled to have Vortex on board this season,” said Roe. “They are a fast-growing company, and we like fast! Plus, they are a natural fit with our other partners and to have them supporting the program is huge.” 

 

“As an Irish driver in the US, it’s important for me to have global companies on our team,” Roe continued. “Vortex has locations in the UK, Europe and the U.S. We’re ready to chase the checkered flag together and grow together.”

 

In the incredibly competitive INDY NXT series, Roe has had nine podiums the last two seasons, and a track-record pole lap at Iowa Speedway last summer. With the variety of tracks in the INDYCAR Series, Roe has shown consistent talent on ovals and road courses.

“We are proud to extend our relationship with James Roe and The Andretti INDY NXT Team as he kicks off the 2025 race season,” said Mike Vellano, CEO of Vortex Companies. “This year marks Vortex’s 10th Anniversary, providing a comprehensive range of products, equipment, and technologies to rehabilitate and repair trenchless infrastructure throughout the world.  James and his team are an integral part of the Vortex family and will help bolster the Vortex global brand as he competes in the INDY NXT Series.” 

Adding to his schedule, Roe is also driving for Pratt Miller Motorsport’s LMP2 entry in the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship. For three endurance races, the 26-year-old will compete in the No. 73 ORECA 07 alongside Pietro Fittipaldi. The next race is the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring, March 12-15. 

To follow Roe’s races this season, watch INDY NXT by Firestone on FS1 and FS2, and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship on NBC, Peacock and USA.

About Vortex Companies: 

Celebrating 10 years in the industry this year, Vortex Companies is a global leader in trenchless water and sewer infrastructure solutions, offering advanced technologies and turnkey services for municipal, industrial, and commercial systems. Operating across 27 locations worldwide, Vortex specializes in manhole and pipe rehabilitation, polymeric coatings, CIPP liners, sewer robotics, and high-speed drain cleaning tools. For more information, visit www.vortexcompanies.com.”

Media Contact:

liza@jamesroejr.com

Daytona, FL (28 January 2025) Through a sunset, sunrise, and 24 hours later, the checkered flag waved over the cars that made it through one of the greatest endurance races in the world.

James Roe made his IMSA debut this weekend, driving in the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona for Pratt Miller Motorsport’s No. 73 LMP2 entry. The car and team of four drivers was having a solid, steady race heading into the eighth hour, when a racing incident caused chaos for many in the field.

On a post-yellow restart, the driver of the No. 40 GTP Wayne Taylor Cadillac lost control while exiting turn two on cold tires. The car bounced off the barrier and back into the racing line, where it was hit by multiple race vehicles. As cars came into the crash zone out of a blind corner, Roe’s teammate Chris Cummings was the second to make contact, in what became the biggest crash of the event.

“We were having a great race and had the car in the right place all evening,” said Roe. “We were on the lead lap with no penalties or damage until Chris got caught in that pile up. There was nothing he could have done about it, and just one of those unfortunate scenarios. But the team did an amazing job getting the car back out there to ensure we got Championship points.”

In an endurance race, co-drivers rotate driving duties, navigating different conditions throughout the day and nighttime hours. Roe drove 7.5 stints and approximately 5 hours. Even with the crash and extensive time needed for repairs, the No. 73 finished in tenth position in the LMP2 category and 41st overall out of 61 entries.

“My stints felt great,” explained Roe. “I had to double-stint tires every run, which was certainly challenging as we built pace throughout the race. We did what we needed to do to hold position and keep the car clean when the last hours came around.”

Roe’s next IMSA outing is the Twelve Hours of Sebring, which is the second endurance event of the 2025 season. The race takes place March 12-15, two weeks after INDY NXT’s first round in St. Petersburg, FL. Throughout February, Roe will continue training and prep for his double-duty racing season.

“Anytime you’re in a race car is beneficial and provides great experience,” said Roe when asked about the difference between his LMP2 car and INDY NXT open-wheel car. “For me, the biggest difference has to be braking and tire life. The two cars are in different worlds when it comes to how they react and feel in each area.

Topcon America Corporation (Headquarters: USA, President and CEO: David Alan Mudrick), a subsidiary of Topcon Corporation (Headquarters: Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, President and CEO: Takashi Eto) and the head of the management holding company in the United States, has signed a new multiyear sponsorship agreement with James Roe, a driver active in the INDY NXT by Firestone series, for 2025 with Andretti Global and the IMSA Endurance championship with Pratt Miller.

Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. operates the construction and agriculture technology division of Topcon Corporation. This business provides paving technology for racing circuits worldwide and has sponsored Roe since 2019. This new agreement also includes support for Roe from Topcon Healthcare, the eye care business division of Topcon Corporation. Topcon Healthcare, Inc. recently donated state-of-the-art eye examination equipment to improve the testing and evaluation of drivers competing in motorsports. In addition, Topcon Corporation will also directly contribute to the James Roe sponsorship; the entire company, across all business divisions, is participating in the sponsorship.

“I’m delighted to expand our partnership with one of the world’s leading precision brands ahead of the 2025 season,” said James Roe. “Thanks to the expanded partnership, we will continue to benefit from both Topcon Positioning Systems and Topcon Healthcare products within the world of motorsport and ensure our focus remains on high performance on track.”

 

“We are truly honored to contribute to the development of the motorsports industry through our precision paving solutions and ophthalmic examination solutions. Furthermore, we hope that this sponsorship will enhance our global brand value through our business activities. With this partnership as an opportunity, our entire company will come together to support James and back him in his endeavors,” said Takashi Eto, President and CEO, Topcon Corporation.

 

INDY NXT is an open-wheel racing series held in the United States and is the final step on the development ladder to INDYCAR. Roe has been participating in INDY NXT since 2023 and claimed two podiums and a pole position last year.  Additionally, Roe is set to compete in the LMP2 class of the IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) series, the pinnacle of sports car endurance racing in North America, for the 2025 Michelin Endurance Cup rounds.

For more information on the Topcon motorsports program with James Roe, visit topconpositioning.com/campaigns/motorsports. Information on Topcon Healthcare’s eye care project with Roe is available at: Topcon Healthcare Equips Indianapolis Motor Speedway with Latest in Vision Testing Solutions. Visit James Roe’s website at jamesroejr.com.

About Topcon Corporation  
Topcon Corporation is a global leader in
manufacturing of technology designed to address essential challenges society faces in healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. Topcon specializes in developing optical, sensing and control solutions powered by leading digital transformation technologies for these industries. For more information about Topcon (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 7732), visit: www.global.topcon.com


About Topcon Positioning Systems   

Topcon Positioning Systems is an industry-leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of precision measurement and workflow solutions for the global construction, geospatial and agriculture markets. Topcon Positioning Systems is headquartered in Livermore, California, U.S. (
topconpositioning.com, LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram). Its European head office is in Zoetermeer, Netherlands. Topcon Corporation (topcon.com), founded in 1932, is traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (7732).  


About Topcon Healthcare, Inc.

Topcon Healthcare, Inc. is part of Topcon Corporation (TSE 7732) and is a leading provider of digital healthcare solutions. Our vision is to improve access and quality of healthcare while decreasing the cost of care. To achieve this vision, we created Healthcare from the Eye™, the strategy of applying AI models to imaging data from the eye to facilitate earlier detection and better management of disease. Healthcare from the Eye is powered by Harmony®, a cloud-based, vendor-inclusive digital health information platform enabling a connected care ecosystem.

Daytona International Speedway is bustling with race teams and drivers from all over the globe, as the first race of the IMSA season is upon us. 

The Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona is North America’s most prestigious sports car race. From sunrise to sunset and through the night, this 24-hour marathon race tests the limits of both driver and machine.

James Roe makes his IMSA debut this weekend, driving for the Oshkosh Corporation owned – Pratt Miller Motorsport’s LMP2 entry. The 26-year-old will compete in the No. 73 ORECA 07 alongside drivers Pietro Fittipaldi, Callum Illott and Chris Cumming. The 12-entry LMP2 class is seeing a boom in popularity with veteran teams and drivers participating. 

And at the “Roar Before the 24” this past weekend, Roe and his Pratt Miller team found good pace, logging laps in six of the practice sessions. 

 

“The Roar weekend was great,” said Roe. “This was my first time in the car and at Daytona Speedway. So, there were many new things to take in, from the car itself, to tire management, traffic management and fuel saving. All important things for the race. The team has been awesome, and my teammates are super helpful at getting me up to speed in a new program.”

The IMSA series features multi-class racing. That means there are FOUR different classes of cars on track at the same time. Part of the driver’s skill is navigating the varied speeds of the cars around you. In addition, for an endurance race like Daytona, each entry will have up to 4 drivers who share the seat throughout the 24 hours.

“Endurance racing has always appealed to me,” continued Roe. “And when the opportunity presented itself to not only compete in one of the world’s largest races, but also expand our racing program for our partners, it was a no brainer.” 

The 63rd Rolex 24 at Daytona will have flag to flag coverage this weekend on Peacock. In addition, broadcast coverage of the race coverage will begin Saturday, Jan. 25 at 1:30 p.m. ET on NBC and move to USA Network from 2:30-6:30 p.m. The conclusion of the race is back on NBC from noon to 2 p.m.

“Looking forward to getting my first ever endurance race under my belt,” says Roe. “And fingers crossed my three teammates and I will be fighting for a win when hour 24 comes around.”

63rd Rolex 24 Hours At Daytona
Daytona International Speedway – Daytona Beach, Florida
Race Day/Time: Saturday, January 25 – 1:40 p.m. ET
NBC Network Coverage: LIVE, Saturday, January 25 – 1:30-2:30 p.m. ET; Sunday, January 26, 12:00-2:00 p.m. ET with remainder on USA and Peacock
Peacock Streaming Coverage: LIVE – Flag-to-flag beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET in the U.S.; International feed coverage on IMSA.tv and YouTube.com/IMSAOfficial (outside U.S.)
Live Qualifying Stream: Thursday, January 23 – 2:05 p.m. ET on Peacock and IMSA.tv (in the U.S.) and YouTube.com/IMSAOfficial (outside the U.S.)
Circuit Type: 3.56-mile, 12-turn road course
Classes Competing: Grand Touring Prototype (GTP), Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2), Grand Touring Daytona Pro (GTD PRO), Grand Touring Daytona (GTD)
Race Length: 24 hours

Team Instagram: @PrattMiller

Professional racing driver James Roe and Ring Power Corporation are excited to announce their continued partnership for the 2025 season. Ring Power, the premier Cat® dealer in North and Central Florida, will support the Irish-born Roe in a dual program between Indy NXT and North Americas premier sports car series IMSA.

Roe will be entering his third INDY NXT season with the famed Andretti Global, driving the No. 29 Topcon Andretti Dallara. In addition to multiple podiums to date, he scored a pole and lap record at Iowa Speedway last July with Ring Power on board.

Adding to his motorsport resume, Roe will be driving for the Oshkosh Corporation owned – Pratt Miller Motorsport’s LMP2 entry in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Endurance Championship. The 26-year-old will compete in the No. 73 ORECA 07 alongside Pietro Fittipaldi. The first stop is the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona on January 25.

“I’m extremely lucky to have such a loyal and steadfast partner in Ring Power. By joining us for a third season, it shows their commitment to supporting both talent and technology. With ambition in the driver’s seat and dedication off the track, we’re poised to achieve great things.”

“Ring Power is thrilled to continue our partnership with James Roe for 2025. We eagerly
anticipate an increased number of races with INDY NXT by Firestone and the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship dual program,” stated Ring Power’s CEO and President, David Alban.  “The new season kicks off at Daytona with the Rolex 24 this month. James continues to excel on the track and represents our brand exceptionally well.”

In the incredibly competitive INDY NXT series, Roe is always one to watch each weekend. Racking up multiple podiums over the last two seasons, he’s shown consistent talent on ovals and road courses. By adding the IMSA races to his full-time NXT schedule, the increased seat-time will continue to hone his skills and competitive edge whilst bringing further activation options to partners on and off the race track.

The partnership between Ring Power and Roe extends far beyond the racetrack. Both parties share a deep-rooted passion for innovation and technology, constantly striving to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Ring Power leverages cutting-edge data analysis and advancements to optimize job site safety, equipment performance, and productivity for their customers. This dedication to progress resonates with Roe’s relentless pursuit of excellence on the track, where every millisecond and strategic decision can make the difference between victory and defeat.

The Ring Power logo will ride with Roe on both the No. 29 and No. 73. Follow their success by watching INDY NXT by Firestone on FS1 and FS2, and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship on NBC, Peacock and USA.

About Ring Power Corporation

Ring Power Corporation, North and Central Florida’s Cat® dealer, is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida. Ring Power is comprised of eight divisions and has more than 60 years of experience servicing and supporting Cat® products and allied equipment. For more information, visit www.ringpower.com

NEW HUDSON (Nov. 15, 2024) – Today Pratt Miller Motorsports officially announced its return to prototype racing with an entry anchored by drivers James Roe and Pietro Fittipaldi in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s highly competitive LMP2 category.

“It’s a privilege to become part of the winning legacy at Pratt Miller Motorsports,” remarked Roe, who also drives for Andretti Global in the INDY NXT by Firestone series. “I look forward to contributing to Pratt Miller’s tradition of excellence, especially in this inaugural year for the LMP2 program.”

Celebrating a new chapter in its storied history, the team will field an Oreca 07 helmed by Fittipaldi and Roe with additional driver announcements to follow. This expansion comes as Pratt Miller continues to solidify its position as a leader in professional sports car racing.

“We’re excited to deepen our involvement in IMSA by launching an LMP2 program,” noted Brandon Widmer who serves as Vice President, Pratt Miller Motorsports. “This expansion reflects our commitment to innovation and performance. Concurrently, over this past season, we have been laying the groundwork to build a comprehensive motorsports platform built to maximize our team partners’ return on the investment they make with us.”

Alongside this new endeavor, Pratt Miller will continue to operate its world-renowned Corvette Racing by Pratt Miller Motorsports GTD Pro team, maintaining its legacy of excellence and performance. The 2025 season will open in Daytona Beach, Florida with the 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona on the weekend of January 23-26 following the annual Roar Before the Rolex 24 testing event the weekend prior.

About Pratt Miller:

Founded in 1989, Pratt Miller, a wholly owned subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE: OSK), is an innovative engineering and product development company. Leveraging its winning motorsports heritage, Pratt Miller delivers creative solutions to complex challenges, applying its speed, agility, and engineering expertise to advance industries and transform client visions into reality.