Solid Oval Work Completed in Phoenix

The final pre-season test delivered another positive step for Juncos Hollinger Racing with two productive days of running at Phoenix Raceway.

As the team’s first oval outing of the year, the testing focus shifted toward high-speed balance, qualifying trim and long-run consistency. Both cars hit the ground running and made steady progress across the two days, completing 428 laps total and gathering valuable data ahead of the season opener.

With oval preparations complete and confidence building, attention now turns to the opening round at St. Pete next weekend, before returning to Phoenix to race in just a few weeks’ time.

Rinus VeeKay

“I had a really good first oval test with the team in Phoenix. We hit the ground running – started out quick and were really happy with the car, and we made a lot of progress throughout the two days. We learned a lot for the race for sure. Really good qualifying pace and, most important, really good long-run pace.

“I had a good time with the team also. The final test and, well, St. Pete coming up! I’m very excited and we’re ready.”

Sting Ray Robb

“Great to wrap up the open test. I think it was a really good two days. This track is quite fun – I was actually surprised to have that much excitement around here.

“I think when we come back racing it will be more tough. It’s really easy to get off track with testing items as well, so we did good to finish out the two days well. I think we’ll be right in the mix when we roll off the truck back here in just a couple of weeks.

“The team did a very good job to make us in the top 15, so when we come back we’ll have a lot of confidence and move forward. Thanks to everyone for the good work – first oval of the year coming up, but first St Petersburg.”

David Brown, Technical Director

“Phoenix was a productive two days for us. The objective was to validate our oval baseline, understand the tyres over the longer runs and make sure our qualifying package is in the right window. We worked methodically through our testing items and made good progress.

“Both cars gave us good feedback, and the data maps well to that, which is encouraging for when we return here in two weeks’ time to race. This week has given us a solid platform to build from.”

Dave O’Neill, Team Principal

“Pre-season is all about preparation and as we head towards the first race, it was important for us to execute cleanly at this test. We completed good mileage and came away with clarity on where we stand with the oval package.

“Now we shift focus to St. Petersburg. We know we have the right foundation – it’s about carrying that momentum through into the first race weekend.”