Michael Andretti is working hard to bring Juan Pablo Montoya back in the open-wheel world and, according to reports; significant progress has been made in recent weeks as to make the Andretti Autosport owner optimistic about the future.
“We're at about 50 percent of what's needed to run Juan,” said John Lopes, the team's senior VP and chief marketing officer. “There have been a lot of interest in him and a number of companies, here and abroad, are taking notice of his possible comeback.”
It is estimated that at least $7 million are needed to run a full season and the acquisition of one final sponsor the team has been negotiating with would allow the Colombian's deal to be finalized.
Apart from Montoya, two other drivers are already confirmed at Andretti’s for next year and 2012 IndyCar Series champion Ryan Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti could partner the Colombian if everything fall into places.
The team is still working hard to retain James Hinchcliffe and E.J. Viso, which would push the program to five cars if both return. Young Colombian standout Carlos Munoz could also join the squad.
“We're at about 50 percent of what's needed to run Juan,” said John Lopes, the team's senior VP and chief marketing officer. “There have been a lot of interest in him and a number of companies, here and abroad, are taking notice of his possible comeback.”
It is estimated that at least $7 million are needed to run a full season and the acquisition of one final sponsor the team has been negotiating with would allow the Colombian's deal to be finalized.
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| La Dallara-Chevrolet d'Andretti Autosport. (Photo: IndyCar) |
Apart from Montoya, two other drivers are already confirmed at Andretti’s for next year and 2012 IndyCar Series champion Ryan Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti could partner the Colombian if everything fall into places.
The team is still working hard to retain James Hinchcliffe and E.J. Viso, which would push the program to five cars if both return. Young Colombian standout Carlos Munoz could also join the squad.