Pablo Donoso, who claimed a win in his rookie season in Firestone Indy Lights in 2008, has signed with Brian Stewart Racing for the 2009 season. Donoso, who won the second race at Infineon Raceway and earned his first pole position at Milwaukee, will drive the No. 33 car for veteran team owner Brian Stewart.
“Pablo is not afraid to step on the gas, and I think we can do a good job for him and help him fight for the championship,” Stewart said. “He’s got the experience of a full season in the car and is a very good driver. I got to know him last year, and I like him. I couldn’t be happier to add a driver of his ability, especially at this time of year.”
Donoso, who is managed by former IndyCar Series competitor Eliseo Salazar, finished seventh in points in 2008 despite competing with three teams. The 22-year-old native of Santiago, Chile competed with Stewart’s team on the ovals at Kentucky Speedway and Chicagoland Speedway.
He said he is looking forward to re-joining the team and making the most of the opportunity.
“I am very pleased to return to BSR, especially since I already know many of the guys the team,” Donoso said. “Sometimes there is a big worry when you join a new team, but I’m already comfortable working with Brian and his crew, so that worry doesn’t exist.”
Stewart, who previously signed Russian driver Sergey Mokshantsev for his two-car effort, said the addition of Donoso gives his team one of the best driver combinations.
“The last time we had two good drivers was in 1997 with Cristiano da Matta and Airton Dare,” Stewart said. “This is the first year since then that I’ve had two good drivers that can consistently fight for the podium. I think Pablo and Sergey will push each other to do better and make each other better this season.”
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