Chris Griffis Memorial Test: Drivers Who Tested Without Racing
In the world of professional open-wheel racing, testing is a critical bridge between simulation and competition. One of the most significant opportunities for drivers to gain seat time is the Chris Griffis Memorial Test. This event allows drivers to acclimate to the machinery of the USF Pro Championships—including Indy NXT (formerly Indy Lights), USF Pro 2000, and USF2000—before committing to a full race season.
While many participants use these tests as a springboard into a competitive campaign, some drivers take part in the sessions without ever competing in an official race within those specific classes. These drivers gain invaluable experience and data, even if they do not transition to the starting grid.
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Key Facts
- The Chris Griffis Memorial Test serves as a primary evaluation period for drivers in the USF Pro ladder.
- Drivers have tested across three primary tiers: Indy NXT (the top tier), USF Pro 2000 (the middle tier), and USF2000 (the entry tier).
- Participation spans over a decade, with recorded test-only drivers from 2012 through 2025.
- Teams such as Jay Howard Driver Development, Pabst Racing, and VRD Racing frequently host drivers for these evaluation sessions.
Analysis of Test-Only Participants
The list of drivers who tested but did not race reveals the diverse nature of the road to Indy. Some drivers are seasoned professionals exploring new series, while others are newcomers testing the waters of American open-wheel racing.
Early Years and Evolution (2012–2016)
During the early 2010s, the USF2000 category saw a high volume of test-only drivers. In 2012 alone, drivers like Joe Ruch and Yukio Duzanowski tested with Afterburner Autosport and Belardi Auto Racing, respectively. The Indy Lights category also saw participants like Nick McBride testing with Sam Schmidt Motorsports without moving into a race seat.
By 2015 and 2016, the trend continued with drivers such as Chase Owen and Leandro Wolther utilizing the test to gauge their performance in the USF2000 machinery.
Recent Trends and Future Prospects (2017–2025)
In more recent years, the testing rosters have remained active. Notable mentions include Raoul Hyman, who tested in both the IP2000 (now USF Pro 2000) and USF2000 categories across different years. The 2025 roster shows a significant influx of talent, with drivers like Victor Martins testing in Indy NXT with HMD Motorsports and several others, including Max Radeck and Joao Balesteiro, preparing in the lower tiers.
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Summary of Drivers Who Tested But Did Not Race
| Year | Series | Driver | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | USF2000 | Joe Ruch | Afterburner Autosport |
| 2012 | Indy Lights | Nick McBride | Sam Schmidt Motorsports |
| 2014 | Indy Lights | Parker Kligerman | Schmidt Peterson Motorsports |
| 2019 | Indy Lights | Egor Orudzhev | Andretti Autosport |
| 2022 | USFP2000 | Callum Voisin | Jay Howard Driver Development |
| 2025 | Indy NXT | Victor Martins | HMD Motorsports |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chris Griffis Memorial Test?
It is a specialized testing event for drivers in the USF Pro series, designed to provide experience and evaluation opportunities in Indy NXT, USF Pro 2000, and USF2000 cars.
Why do some drivers test but not race?
Drivers may test to evaluate their compatibility with a car, assess a team's capabilities, or gain experience without the financial or contractual commitment of a full racing season.
Which series are included in these tests?
The tests cover the primary developmental tiers of the USF Pro ladder, specifically USF2000, USF Pro 2000 (formerly Pro Mazda/IP2000), and Indy NXT (formerly Indy Lights).
Which teams frequently participate in these tests?
Several prominent teams appear regularly, including Jay Howard Driver Development, Pabst Racing, VRD Racing, and HMD Motorsports.
Does testing in these series guarantee a race seat?
No. As evidenced by the list of drivers who tested but did not race, the test is an evaluative tool and does not automatically lead to a competitive race entry.