Dario in Wheldon out — Wheldon in Meira out

The 2007 500 Champion Dario Franchitti will replace the 2005 500 champ in the #10 Chip Ganassi ride for the 2009 season.  Dario had this to say about his return:

 “I’m very excited to be coming back to the IndyCar Series. I think the unified series is excellent news. I think the schedule for next year was a big part of my decision, plus the chance to drive for Target Chip Ganassi Racing, which is a great team. I have competed against the team for I guess 10 or 11 years in open-wheel. I know how difficult they are to beat. I’m really looking forward to being a part of the team going forward and having Scott as a teammate.
 

Dave Calabro (Indianapolis Sports reporter/Indy 500 announcer replacing Tom Carnegie) reports that Wheldon has signed with Panther Racing replacing Vitor Meira in the #4  ride, now leaving Meira without a ride.  However Panther has not yet ruled out the possibility of Vitor in a second Panther car for 2009.

Possible Vitor Landing Spots

• Rahal Letterman-They are interested in a second car and a Vitor return could be interesting
• Luzco Dragon- A strong team that could expand to a two car full time ride
• Walker- Looking into a 09′ program, Vitor could make a good fit
• Foyt- Not sure A.J is exactly thrilled with Manning, although he has uped his game in recent weeks
• Vision- Quatro’s future maybe up in the air
• Pacific Coast- A low budget team but reports are out that they are looking at 2 cars for 09′
• HVM- Has gone on the record saying that they are also looking into 2 cars for 09′
• Forsythe- Reports of an 09′ program
• Conquest & Coyne- Both could make changes in the off season

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