Graham Rahal Embarks on a New Journey
As the IndyCar Series season opener in St. Petersburg approaches, Graham Rahal is gearing up for a unique experience. This weekend will mark the debut of his newly-formed MotoAmerica team, Rahal Ducati Moto, which will also be competing at Daytona.
Rahal Ducati Moto was announced six months ago, with a specific focus on entering the Supersport class. The team principal, racing legend Ben Spies, has played a crucial role in shaping the foundation of the program. Spies, a five-time AMA champion and former World Superbike titleholder, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team.
For Rahal, the inspiration to venture into MotoAmerica stems from his childhood days of watching AMA races in Columbus, Ohio. Now, as he embarks on his 276th IndyCar start, Rahal is also taking on the role of team owner. Despite the logistical challenge of both series commencing on the same weekend, Rahal is enthusiastic about the opportunity.
Reflecting on the simultaneous debut of his MotoAmerica team and his IndyCar commitments, Rahal acknowledges the pressure and excitement that come with the territory. While he won’t be present at the Daytona 200, the inaugural race for his team, Rahal is fully engaged in preparing for his own racing endeavors.
Rahal’s collaboration with Ben Spies underscores the importance of having someone with deep expertise in MotoAmerica. Spies’ involvement in the project has been instrumental in shaping the team and preparing for the season ahead.
When Spies expressed interest in joining the effort, Rahal was pleasantly surprised. His partnership with Spies has added credibility and energy to the program, leading to the formation of a competitive three-rider roster comprising Corey Alexander, PJ Jacobsen, and Kayla Yaakov. With Spies at the helm as team manager, the team is geared up for a challenging yet rewarding season.
One of the notable additions to the team is Kayla Yaakov, a young talent with a promising career ahead. Yaakov, who turned 16 last June, has already showcased her potential with multiple wins and podium finishes in lower categories. Her entry into the Supersport class has generated considerable buzz, making her one to watch in the upcoming season.
Graham Rahal’s foray into MotoAmerica with Rahal Ducati Moto marks a new chapter in his racing career, blending his passion for motorsport with the thrill of team ownership. With a strong team lineup and experienced leadership, Rahal is poised for success in this exciting venture.