In a significant move, Salvador de Alba has committed to a two-year partnership with Andretti Cape Indy NXT, marking a pivotal step in his racing career. For the 2024 season, de Alba will be behind the wheel of the No. 2 entry for the newly established Andretti Cape Indy NXT before seamlessly transitioning to Andretti’s Indy NXT outfit in 2025.
A seasoned 24-year-old Mexican driver, de Alba brings with him an impressive track record, boasting two NASCAR Mexico Series championships in 2021 and 2023. Additionally, he holds titles in SC Super Copa (2019) and Super Copa GTM (2021, 2023). Making his debut in the USF Pro 2000 in 2022, de Alba secured two wins and four podium finishes, securing an eighth-place finish in the championship standings. The subsequent season in Indy Pro 2000 witnessed a single victory but showcased increased consistency with three additional runner-up results, culminating in a commendable third-place overall standing.
J-F Thormann, Andretti Global President, expressed enthusiasm about Salvador de Alba joining the Andretti Cape Indy NXT roster, citing his notable accomplishments across various racing series. Thormann remarked, “Bringing Salvador onto the Andretti Cape Indy NXT roster this year is an excellent move for us. He has a strong resume in a variety of series and recently walked out of 2023 with two driver’s championships, which is an impressive feat that hasn’t gone unnoticed.”
Recognizing the significance of this opportunity, de Alba shared his excitement, stating, “Joining Andretti Cape is the biggest step in my career so far, and I’m excited to be part of this team.” Reflecting on his achievements in NASCAR, Super Copa, and USF Pro 2000 in the previous year, he expressed eagerness to embark on his Indy NXT journey. With the support of his sponsors, including Michel Jourdain and the Andretti Cape team, de Alba expressed his commitment to working hard and making the most of the upcoming season, with aspirations for continuous growth through 2025.
This move represents a culmination of de Alba’s journey, dating back to July 2021, when he first experienced Indy NXT machinery during a test with Andretti at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. The team is optimistic about Salvador de Alba’s contribution, anticipating his experience and enthusiasm to be valuable assets for the Andretti Cape Indy NXT team. The collaboration is seen as a strategic partnership aimed at developing de Alba’s career and witnessing his progression in the racing world over the next two years.