Honda Performance Development appoints new motorsport boss

Allen Miller was named Race Team Leader for the Honda Performance Development (HPD), a subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co. Miller will lead all on-track activities for HPD's motorsports programs including the Verizon IndyCar Series, the Pirelli World Challenge and the endurance sports car series.

Before taking on his new role, Miller had held a number of positions at HPD. After spending four years with Nissan Performance Technology, Miller joined HPD as an engine builder in 1994. Three years after, he became the supervisor of HPD's engine shop and has undertaken key roles during the glory days of the company at the Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART). Then, Miller became an assistant manager from 2000 up to 2002.

During his year's with HPD's CART program, Honda earned four manufacturers' championship and a total of 65 race victories from 164 events. Moroever, Honda-powered drivers won six consecutive titles.

In 2006, Miller was named project manager for HPD's prototype sports car program. Two years after, he was appointed as the project leader of the said program.

Under his guidance, HPD has recorded 74 race victories including two class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans; multiple manufacturer championships in the American Le Mans Series from 2008 to 2013; and LMP2 title in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2012.

Honda says Matt Niles succeeds Miller as manager for prototype sports car racing programs and Lee Niffenegger manages the Acura Motorsports program in the Pirelli World Challenge.