Grosjean to make Indianapolis oval debut with Andretti in rookie test

Romain Grosjean will take to the banks of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the first time next week as part of an IndyCar rookie orientation programme test.

The Frenchman made the switch to the American open-wheel series last winter after bringing an end to his F1 career.

Former Haas and Lotus driver Grosjean excelled in his rookie part-season, only initially contracted to running on street and road courses before taking the plunge on ovals at Gateway late in the season.

He will now take part in the rookie programme alongside seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson next week in preparation for next year's Indy 500.

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Grosjean will make the move to one of the biggest teams in the series next season, Andretti Autosport, and speaking at the Russian Grand Prix, Haas team principal Guenther Steiner hopes his former driver finds further success.

"We haven't spoken a lot lately, we have had a few whatsapps because he is always busy and I am always busy," said Steiner.

"I watched the race in Laguna Seca and it looks like he is enjoying himself which I am very happy about because he was an integral part of Haas, to get Haas actually going.

"I hope he is doing well, he has now got the opportunity to have a very good car. I mean his car this year didn't seem to be too bad, he put the fight on with other people so fair play.

"The biggest thing is he enjoys himself and hopefully he can have some good results next year because even this year he had good results."

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