In November 2008 it was announced that Bumgarner had signed a driver development contract to race in the Firestone Indy Lights series with Walker Racing.Michelle Bumgarner inks 5-year deal to race in Indianapolis, GMA News, November 17, 2008, Retrieved 2011-08-04 She participated in a test with Guthrie RacingStenzel, Scott. Michele Bumgarner - Indy Lights Test - Indycar Driver (video), Retrieved 2011-08-04 However, Walker Racing entered the 2009 Indy Lights season fielding a car for Stefan Wilson rather than Bumgarner and as of 2011 she has not driven in an Indy Lights race and she has not participated in a professional auto race since 2008.
