Stefan races in memory of tragic brother

The 26-year-old from Rotherham begins the qualification process for the 100th staging of the Indianapolis 500 on Monday and he’s determined to make the cut and take his place on the start line in a fortnight’s time.

Stefan’s elder brother, Justin, was killed last August at Ponono Raceway after being struck on the head by a chunk of debris. The 37-year-old died two days later in hospital and left a wife and two young daughters.

Now Stefan — who has briefly driven in IndyCars but hasn’t raced since the tragedy — has landed a drive with KV Racing technology and wants to use the race to promote organ donation. Justin was a donor and helped save the lives of five people after organ transplants.

Said Stefan, who grew up in Woodall: “It's a little bit bittersweet. I'm super excited for the opportunity to qualify for the race, but now that we've got the deal done and the focus is on the race, there's a part of me that does start to miss Justin as well."

If he qualifies, the race takes place on May 29.