Hunter-Reay Moves To Foyt

In the two races since Foyt driver Vitor Meira was injuried in the 93rd running of the Indianapolis 500, veteran Paul Tracy and A.J. Foyt IV have both piloted the #14 to frusterating results. But now Ryan Hunter-Reay will be taking over for the season.

Vitor Meira is slated to return for the season finale in Homestead-Miami this October, where the Foyt operation will field a two car team.

Sure it's surprising, but the worst part about the situation is that the #21 car will now be vacant, lowering the already low full-season car count to 19. And that's counting both Milka and Tomas Scheckter for the full season.

"We knew there would be challenges bringing Ryan (Hunter-Reay) on board at such a late juncture, but we did so knowing the benefits it would have to our program on the long term. My commitment remains with keeping Ryan Hunter-Reay in the series and with Vision Racing for the long term. We had high hopes that we'd be able to attract the primary sponsorship necessary to continue through the course of the season and into the future. While those efforts have been rewarded with some positive developments and opportunities which we are actively pursuing and developing, it did not provide for the short terms needs and our ability to ensure a successful program for the balance of the season."

"Following the Texas race, it became clear that this could be a reasonable solution to a number of challenges and it needed consideration. A.J. Foyt and I spoke candidly about what Ryan had to offer. We all feel Ryan will be able to contribute to their program and provide continuity for the rest of the season while they await Vitor's return."-Tony George

"We all have the big picture in mind for Vision's future, and that is not only to find our way to victory circle, but for Vision to have a program that is capable of challenging for the Championship. As competitive as the Indy Racing League is today, those goals require a strong commitment not only by the team but also by sponsors and partners. In the very short time I have been at Vision their efforts in developing sponsorship and B2B opportunities have yielded positive results which have laid a strong foundation we intend to build on."

"The reality of such a program demands equipment, resources, and an appropriate budget so the talented men and women of Vision Racing have the tools to succeed. Together we have obtained the best result in the history of the team, and despite our challenges we remain in the top ten in the Championship. Knowing what I know today, I am optimistic of continuing with Vision in 2010 with a strong program. Again, I want to thank everyone on the Vision Team for their hard work and particularly Tony, Laura, Lauren, and the George Family for their continued support -Ryan Hunter-Reay

Posted in: