Target Chip Ganassi Racing unveiled a long list of exciting changes to their IndyCar program today, introducing a new driver and a new engine and chassis manufacturer package for the 2006 IndyCar Series season. source: paddocktalk.com Team owner Chip Ganassi formally announced on Monday that the team will return to IndyCar Series competition in 2006 with two Indy Racing League Champions. The 2003 IndyCar title winner Scott Dixon, who has five wins and five pole positions on his resume, will be back at the helm of the No.9 Target car for a fourth season. In addition, the Target team will entrust the No.10 Target car to newly-crowned Series Champion Dan Wheldon, a four-year veteran in the Indy Racing League with nine wins and two pole positions, a proven race winner.... and then some. "Obviously, we're happy to have Dan Wheldon joining Target Chip Ganassi Racing for the foreseeable future," said team owner Ganassi. "We couldn't be happier with what Dan brings to the team, not only in terms of his ability, but his tendency to run at the front of a very difficult and competitive series. He is a proven champion, and his teaming up with another champion in Scott Dixon is a perfect fit for our IndyCar driver lineup. We think the addition of Dan ensures Target Chip Ganassi Racing's position as a formidable competitor in the IndyCar Series moving forward." In just three full IndyCar Series seasons, the young British driver went from being an unproven rookie to an Indianapolis 500 winner and Series Champion. Wheldon captured the 2005 IRL Driver's Championship with a record-setting six wins in 17 races, and won the 89th running of the Indianapolis 500 in only his third attempt. This past season he posted 12 top-five finishes and 15 top-10 finishes, and clinched the 2005 IRL Driver's Championship with one practice lap at Watkins Glen. "Throughout my career, I've always looked favorably on Chip's team and the things they've been able to accomplish in motor racing," said Wheldon. "I'm obviously very excited about joining Target Chip Ganassi Racing, and having the opportunity to team up with another IndyCar Champion in Scott Dixon. Looking forward to 2006, a few of my goals include sustaining the momentum I have coming off last season, and returning the Target team to where they're accustomed to running- up front."
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