KV Racing Technology have confirmed that they will not participate in the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series season, with both Kevin Kalkhoven and Jimmy Vasser, the K an V in the team respectively, thanking the team and the fans.
Kalkhoven has revealed that he will continue to assist those within IndyCar, particularly when it comes to promotion and finding new owners and sponsors, but is stepping down from a more active role in team management.
The team are selling two cars and their equipment to Juncos Racing, who are looking to make the move into IndyCar themselves, possibly as soon as the 2017 Indianapolis 500.
“I want to thank all those who have written to express their appreciation of the efforts of KV Racing Technology during the last 14 years,” said Kalkhoven. “However as I approach 73, I feel I can no longer give the team the effort and support it and the team members deserve.
“I have really enjoyed my time in the series, helping with reunification and of course winning the greatest spectacle in racing… the Indianapolis 500!
“It is my firm belief that the series is on a major upswing under the leadership of Mark Miles and Jay Frye and has a bright future. I remain committed to help in any way I can, particularly in encouraging new owners and sponsors. In particular Ricardo Juncos, to whom we will be offering our support.
“To all the fans who follow the series, and cheered for KVRT, my heartfelt thanks and please spread the good word about the fantastic sport we have.“
Vasser has thanked Kalkhoven for enabling him to evolve his career from driver to team owner, and was part of the outfit that saw Tony Kanaan take victory in the Indy 500 back in 2013.
“First and foremost I want to thank all the fans who have supported the team over the years,” said Vasser. “I also want to thank Kevin Kalkhoven for giving me the special and unique opportunity to transition from a driver to a team owner while I was still driving.
“I am very proud to have been a part of this team and I will always cherish all the great people and drivers we worked side-by-side with to achieve our successes.
“It has been a journey of many ups and downs, but I will always remember winning the 2013 Indy 500.
“IndyCar racing has been a part of my life for 25 years, it is in my soul and it will be interesting to see where it takes me from here.”
