Michael Cannon’s latest IndyCar adventure at Prema has to an end. In fact 48 days after the announcement of his signing, tracksideonline reports that the experienced engineer and the Italian team have parted ways even before having the opportunity to have a car on track or testing time.
Cannon held the role of Head of Engineering at Prema ahead of their debut season in IndyCar, and had amassed experience earlier with Ganassi, Andretti, Dale Coyne Racing and AJ Foyt Racing. He was present at the team’s livery launch in the past week, where it was also revealed the appointment of Romain Grosjean as Reserve Driver.
The thoughts of Callum Ilott before the news
Prema driver Callum Ilott had discussed working with the illustrious engineer during IndyCar’s content days, mentioning that while the bulk of his job hadn’t been done at the time, he had already been able to appreciate his mentality and knowledge.
“INDYCAR’s own Einstein, right? Yeah, he’s great. Obviously it’s limited so far. We’ve only done some simulator stuff, and that was establishing the foundations of the team and just getting things going.
“Haven’t seen the full creation as of yet. He’s been working hard with the team. Let’s see where it goes, and I’ll answer that again later on. But right now it’s a good start, but everyone’s head is down at the moment.”
Santino Ferrucci on working with Cannon
AJ Foyt’s Santino Ferrucci also praised Cannon and his approach to work. The American remained at the team directed by A.J. Foyt for two years, leading Ferrucci to a podium in the 2023 edition of the Indy 500.
“Trust me, I’ve known Cannon since I came into the sport. In 2018 I got and still have a fantastic relationship with him. He’s someone that I call to chat and BS with from time to time.
“Yeah, obviously it’s a bummer. Sometimes the stars just don’t always align.”
In spite of the move, the former Formula 2 driver is still confident in his and his team’s abilities, while also recognising the effort and the kickstart impact Cannon had on all of the team.
“I drive the car, and I’m very, very confident in our engineering staff this year. We have Mike Armbrester who’s going to lead my car; James Schnabel who’s going to move over to Malukas’s car; and with Adam Kolesar and CJ and Collin, we have a very, very solid engineering program going right now.
“A lot of that I do believe is thanks to Mike, and I wish him very much the best of luck at Premo. They’ll be a force at Indy, I’m sure. A little concerned racing against them. It’s always tough,” he concluded.
