2016 runner-up Thompson to remain in series with Exclusive Autosport

The decision means that the 18-year-old from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada, will race the series’ new Tatuus USF-17 Mazda, and should next year be able to graduate to its sister car, the PM-18, when Pro Mazda gains its new spec machinery.

For a team making its Mazda Road To Indy debut, the signing is seen as a major coup, as Exclusive Autosport team owners Michael and Kimberly Duncalfe believe it will give them a “true shot at the title.” The four-year-old Exclusive team, from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, has scored several wins and titles in both Canadian and American F1600 competition.

Said Michael Duncalfe: “[The move] couldn't come at a better time for EA as we have completed our fourth season as a team, where we have captured 11 team championships and four Rookie of the Year championships. 

“We felt it was the right time to move up to the next level, especially with the introduction of the USF-17 Tatuus chassis. 

“I am especially excited that Parker will be one of our drivers, a series veteran, leading the EA program in our inaugural season in the USF2000 Championship / MRTI.  I have the utmost respect for not only his racecraft, but also his work ethic on and off the track. I have never seen a driver work as hard as he does off the track on his racing program.”

Thompson, who scored wins and poles in F1600 for Exclusive back in 2015, said: “This was one of the hardest offseasons I have had in my motorsport career thus far. I honestly didn't know if I was going to get behind the wheel of a racecar in 2017, so when the opportunity arose to become a part of the EA organization, I was ecstatic.

“This is a dream team fit for myself, in a number of different ways. I met Michael when I was just 11-years-old at the Western Canadian Karting Championships. It just goes to show you what relationship building can do for your career down the road!

“You could definitely say that I have some unfinished business to take care of on the Mazda Road to Indy in 2017, and I couldn't be prouder to represent EA Autosport while I do it."

Exclusive’s USF2000 program, which will be based out of Palmetto, Florida, is expected to run three cars in 2017, and will test at the end of the month on Homestead road course.