LAS VEGAS (AP) — IndyCar is getting a new team next season, and Lotus finally has its first entrant.
Michael Shank says his team based in Columbus, Ohio, will run in the series for the first time next year with the new Lotus engine. Brian Bailey and NASCAR driver AJ Allmendinger will be partners in the team, which is scheduled to receive its new car Dec. 15.
Shank says he wants to compete in open wheel because he’s always dreamed of winning the Indianapolis 500. The new, lower-priced cars, he says, have given him that opportunity.
Shank drove for his own team from 1989 through 1997 before becoming a full-time owner.
Allmendinger will continue to run in the Cup series, the team says.
