AJ Foyt Racing Renovates Its IndyCar Engineering Department

AJ Foyt Racing has recruited Michael Cannon and other NTT IndyCar Series engineers to help with the rebuilding of its technical and engineering staff.

Cannon, a Montreal native, said that what was supposed to be a job as a summer job at 20 years old became a career in motor racing."You can pull out bits from every interaction. I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented people in the industry.

Cannon enjoys working with young drivers at AJ Foyt Racing after having worked with one of the power teams of the NTT IndyCar Series at Chip Ganassi Racing. Cannon worked alongside Ferrucci in 2019, when they were both at Dale Coyne Racing.

Cannon stated, "It was an occasion to do something I enjoy."

"I know Larry has been working hard for the team to move up the grid. I saw this as an opportunity to help Larry and Santino, and Benjamin Pedersen, who's joining the team. I'm excited to see if my efforts can make a difference.

John Cannon, John's father, was a well-known driver who made a name for himself in sports cars. Foyt and Cannon teamed up when they drove for John Mecom, the Houston oil magnate, in the 12 Hours of Sebring 1964. They finished second in Grand Sport (Grade 2), behind Jim Hall and Roger Penske.

AJ Foyt Racing President Larry Foyt appointed Craig Brooks as Team Manager. Brooks oversees both Indiana and Texas operations but is based out of Indianapolis. Brooks was previously the technical director of the Indy Lights Series over the past 13 years. He also worked part-time as a technical consultant for IMSA Series since 2016.

Foyt also appointed Chris "Beaker", Sheffer, as the shop manager for Indianapolis. Sheffer has over 20 years of experience in motorsports management and technical roles.

Larry Foyt stated that although there are many new faces in this team, he could say that the feeling is positive and everyone is working in the same direction. We know it will take time to get there, but we are looking forward to the challenge and proving we are on the right track.

Ferrucci and Pedersen are scheduled to participate in the NTT IndyCar Series Open Test at Thermal, Calif. February 2-3.

Mid-February will see a private test in Sebring (Fla.). The 17-race series will begin March 3-5 in St. Petersburg (Florida).