Lochie Hughes maintains USF2000 lead with win and podium at Indy Grand Prix

Lochie Hughes took a win and a podium on Saturday in Indianapolis to hold his newfound lead of the USF2000 championship standings.

Lochie Hughes celebrates victory at the Indy Grand Prix. (Gavin Baker Photography / USF Pro Championships)

The Queenslander started second in race two before falling to seventh, facing an uphill battle in the competitive USF2000 field around the Indianapolis road course. Hughes was up to second by the chequered flag behind leader Simon Sikes.

The Jay Howard driver was part of a six-way battle for the lead in race three, taking the top spot at the lap four restart. He held the position through the next restart to take victory ahead of Nikita Johnson and Max Garcia.

"I am super happy to win race three," said Hughes.

"I mean, what a place to win. I can’t thank the team enough. It has been a tough weekend finishing second every single race so far."

"To finally come out on top is just such a relief and I can’t thank the team enough. It is cool to win for my mom on Mother’s Day as well so hi to them back home.”

Lochie Hughes in victory lane at IMS. (Gavin Baker Photography / USF Pro Championships)

Hughes holds the lead of the standings on 185 points after seven races, ahead of Sikes on 171 points. Kiwi Jacob Douglas is tenth in the championship on 71 points with sixth in race two and a DNF in race three.

The USF2000 Presented by Cooper Tires remains in Indianapolis for the only oval race of the season, May 26 at the nearby Lucas Oil Raceway Park.