Finnish driver looks at North America’s ladder program and starts with JHDD

With the 2025 USF Pro Championships Presented by Continental Tire season just around the corner, Jay Howard Driver Development (JHDD) continues to complete their driver lineup. Inking a deal with Finland’s next best talent, Vilho Aatola will compete in USF Juniors in 2025 and begin his North American campaign with a test program beginning at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in a few short weeks.

"I am thrilled to have Vilho on the team. He is Finland's finest up-and-coming talent, and I'm grateful to all of Vilho's supporters for putting trust in our program to reach the goal of advancing Vilho to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” explained Jay Howard, a former INDYCAR competitor himself. “I believe he has all the tools and support he needs to make it happen, and I look forward to the journey together."

A multi-time karting champion in Finland, Aatola moves to open-wheel racing in North America. Setting his sights on the ladder program and seeing the success of others, Aatola is committed to the climb. Testing the waters with other programs, Aatola landed at JHDD based on past success and the progression of drivers that have moved through the potent multi-tier effort.

"I am pleased that we reached an agreement with Jay Howard regarding the next step, which includes winter testing and the winter series,” added Aatola. “I am truly excited about the upcoming collaboration and the opportunity to develop in the USF Juniors series. I’m already looking forward to getting to know the team better and driving on a new track at Homestead, Florida, in just over a week."

Vilho's parents Anne and Tommi Aatola commented, "It’s great that we have the opportunity to work with Jay, as he is an experienced driver and has extensive experience in coaching young drivers. The team’s operations appear professional and committed to long-term development, which aligns with our goal of building Vilho’s racing career for the long term."

"The Indy Junior Academy Finland-USA was established in 2023 to support talented and motivated young Finnish racing drivers in their journey toward the American motorsport scene,” expressed Tero Palmroth. “We have now taken the first step with Vilho Aatola, as he tested a USF Juniors car for the first time in early November. Following successful test days, we are excited to continue the project through the winter season, moving toward the main series. We would not have succeeded in this without the strong network and partners supporting the academy."

Howard added, “I fully expect Vilho to be quick from the first test, and I’m looking forward to seeing how he does in the YACademy Winter Series.”

Stay tuned to the Jay Howard Driver Development social media channels for more information on drivers and the upcoming season. Follow them on social media by searching ‘Jay Howard Driver Development.