Servia, Hinchcliffe test for NHR again

Although neither driver has yet completed a deal with the team, both are keen to be part of its line-up in 2011. Indy Lights frontrunner Hinchcliffe has already had two tests with Newman/Haas at Sebring over the winter, while Servia also had a run with the team at the Florida track before Christmas.

Having seen former Lights rivals JR Hildebrand, Charlie Kimball and Ana 'Bia' Beatriz secure their first full-time IndyCar drives this year, Hinchcliffe said he is desperate to join them at the senior level.

"The rookie class for 2011 is looking super-strong," said the 24-year-old Canadian. "With guys like JR and Charlie and now Bia getting a ride it's shaping up to be a great race for rookie of the year.

"I am just working as hard as I can to make sure that come St Pete I am in a Newman/Haas Racing car so we can add our name to that fight."

Servia is eyeing a third stint at Newman/Haas, having driven for the team in Champ Car in 2005 when Bruno Junqueira was injured, and again for a handful of IndyCar races in late-2009 - the 36-year-old Spaniard's most recent appearance in the championship.

"I haven't raced in a year so the more miles I can do the better," said Servia. "Every time I have sat in a Newman/Haas car has produced some of my best racing moments and I am sure this time will be no different.

"After having a year off I have never been so ready to work as hard to achieve our goals."

The Barber test takes places on 14-15 March, ahead of the IndyCar opener in St Petersburg on 27 March.