James Jakes’ rapid rise in the world of motorsport remains in top gear as he prepares for the fourth round of the globetrotting IndyCar Series in Brazil.

Guiseley-born Jakes is competing at his sixth level of racing after speeding through other variations of the sport and graduating from the Formula Renault, GP2 and GP3 versions.

He began his career in 2002 in T-Cars, finishing as runner-up in the series in his second year before finishing third in the Formula Renault series in 2005 and receiving BRDC Rising Star status in the process.

Last year he recorded three podium finishes while driving for Manor Motorsport in the inaugural GP3 Series, finishing eighth in the drivers’ championship.

Jakes currently drives for the Dale Coyne Racing team after coming through a successful test for them last month that preceded his involvement in the first three rounds of the 2011 season.

The 23-year-old finished 15th in the opening race in St Petersburg but dropped to 25th at Alabama, before again crossing the line 15th in the last race at Long Beach, California.

He is currently 23rd in the overall standings ahead of the next race, which takes place on the streets of Sao Paulo on Sunday.

With 14 of the 17 races taking place in America, Jakes has based himself in Orlando, Florida, which has helped him to secure sponsorship from Visit Orlando ahead of the race in Brazil.

About 90,000 spectators are expected to watch a race which will be televised in more than 150 countries, with UK viewers able to catch the action at 5pm on Sky Sports 4.