Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing officially announced the signing of Robert Doornbos as a driver in the 2009 IndyCar Series. The 27-year-old Dutchman had been rumoured to be in at the team for a while and the deal has now been finalised. The team released a statement yesterday saying Doornbos signed a contract for a full-time ride in the 2009 IndyCar Series.
"I'm very happy and proud to get this chance to race with Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing," said Doornbos. "Racing in the IndyCar Series has been my biggest dream and especially to do it with Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing. The history of the team and the big success they have had in the past really attracted me and it makes me proud to become part of this winning team."
Doornbos will participate in the first 2009 IndyCar test at Homestead this weekend, which will be his first ever experience with oval racing. Doornbos: "Racing on the ovals should be very exciting. It will be tough, but I'm training as much as possible and am in good condition and ready to achieve results."
The NHL deal marks the return for "Bobby D", his nickname across the pond, to American open wheel racing. The Dutchman competed in the 2007 Champ Car World Series, finishing third in the standings for Minardi Team USA and scoring two wins. It was this strong series of performances that attracted the attention of NHL Racing.
"Mike and I are excited to add Robert to our lineup," said Carl Haas, co-owner of Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing. "He was a fierce competitor in Champ Car and we are hoping for the same in the IndyCar Series. He was able to quickly adapt to the new challenges in Champ Car which should bode well for the learning curve we will face in getting him acclimated to oval racing."
After missing out on a 2008 IndyCar ride following unification, Bobby D turned his attention to other series, finishing third in the inaugural Superleague Formula series. He also competed in A1GP for Team Netherlands.
Doornbos will contest the 2009 IndyCar Series alongside starlet Graham Rahal. The team is reportedly in talks with Venezuelan Milka Duno for a third car entry.
(fc)
Written: Sat, 21 Feb 2009 04:28:13
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- January 21, 2010USF1, Campos, asking $5m for drive
- August 07, 2009Servia takes second NHL seat
- August 06, 2009Doornbos confirmed at HVM
- August 05, 2009Doornbos out, Philippe in
- March 19, 2009I fought hard to come back - Doornbos
- February 21, 2009NHL signs Doornbos
- February 03, 2009Doornbos to sign NHL contract
- January 15, 2009Doornbos closing in on NHL ride
- May 26, 2008Doornbos inks F1 deal to drive for Renault
- August 20, 2007Doornbos in talks for F1 return
- (February 21, 2009)View all headlines from this date
