Chaves returns to Harding at Gateway

The Colombian American started the year with Harding, having impressed in the team’s opening three races last year, but was replaced by Conor Daly at Toronto, Mid-Ohio and Pocono.

However, with Daly racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Road America this weekend, Chaves has been drafted back into the team for Gateway’s 1.25-mile oval.

“Really enthused and ready to get behind the wheel of the 88 car and be back with my guys,” said Gabby Chaves. “We’re ready to speed up our development and progression, and we’re more driven than ever to get some of the results we know are possible based on our results from last season. I’m also very excited to race at Gateway for the Bommarito 500 for the first time.”

Team president Brian Barnhart added: “I first want to thank Conor for his contributions over the last couple of months and giving another perspective and feedback. We’re excited and happy to have Gabby back in the car as we head to St. Louis. And we're looking to improve on our performance on the short oval form earlier in the year.

“Gabby has done a fantastic job being a team player through the process that had Conor in the car and Colton [Herta] testing in Portland.

“Hopefully we can show Gabby some improvements from the team standpoint when he rejoins us for the St. Louis weekend.”