Alex Barron will replace Gil de Ferran in a Marlboro Team Penske entry at the Indy Japan 300 on April 13 at Twin Ring Motegi, as de Ferran will not be cleared to drive for the event due to a back injury suffered in the IRL IndyCarTM Series event March 23 at Phoenix, Penske Racing and Indy Racing League officials announced March 26.
de Ferran suffered a minor fracture of the lower back and a slight concussion in a two-car accident during the Purex Dial Indy 200 at Phoenix International Raceway, said Dr. Henry Bock, Indy Racing League director of medical services.
de Ferran, from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., was released March 24 from Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Phoenix.
Tim Cindric, president of Penske Racing, Inc., saidOur primary concern is Gis health. We understand that Dr. Bocs decision is in the best interest of Gil and his timely recovery.
Barron, from Menifee, Calif., finished fifth in the IndyCar Series point standings last season, his first full season in the series. He earned one victory and 11 top-10 finishes. He was named Bank One co-Rookie of the Year at the 86th Indianapolis 500-Mile Race after finishing fourth.
Barron made two starts in CART for Marlboro Team Penske in 1999.
