Top driver Oliver Webb will line up on the grid in the United States for the 2012 season after signing with Sam Schmidt Motorsports to contest the 2012 Firestone Indy Lights series.

The 20-year old will drive the team sponsored car for Indianapolis-based Sam Schmidt Motorsports, who are represented in both the Firestone Indy Lights and IndyCar championships.

Webb's move to the US comes off the back of three outings in this year's Firestone Indy Lights championship, in which he showed impressive speed and talent, including a podium finish on his debut in Edmonton with Canadian team Jensen MotorSport.

"Next year will bring more new circuits and experiences," said the former Ryles Park School pupil. "But I can’t wait to be back on track and it’s great to have this deal in place going into the winter break.

"This is a real motivator and I can now focus solely on my fitness and be in shape, mentally and physically.

"The decision to move to America was a big, but essentially easy, one to make."