Hunter-Reay signs for Vision Racing

The 28-year-old American, who won at Watkins Glen last year, was left without a drive for 2009 when Rahal Letterman Racing announced it would not compete in the series this season.

Hunter-Reay tested for the HVM team at Sebring last week but the team was unable to run a second car alongside EJ Viso, so he has now been confirmed at IRL boss Tony George's team just days before the opening round of the season at St. Petersburg.

"This is a huge opportunity on so many levels," Hunter-Reay said. "Throughout the off-season I have been relentlessly attacking this thing from every angle; my sincere appreciation to all involved.

"From a competition standpoint, Vision Racing has what it takes to win races and that's what matters the most. I cannot say enough about Vision's determination to put a competitive car on the track at St. Pete, despite the narrow timeframe.

Hunter-Reay will partner Ed Carpenter in the two-car team this year.

"I am really looking forward to working with Ed as a team-mate," added Hunter-Reay. "St. Petersburg will definitely be an acclimation period for us, but our expectations are very high. We are going to work really hard this season and I can't wait to get the job started."

George added: "The accomplishments that Ryan has achieved in the short time that he's driven in the IndyCar Series speaks to the kind of talent and ability he possesses. Rather than have him watching from the sidelines or driving against us, it only made sense to bring him into our operation for the 2009 season."