Andretti Sr joins CART board

Andretti Jr is tipped to switch series next year after buying a majority stake in the CART outfit he drives for, Team Green. But his father has always supported CART to the hilt and has been welcomed as a new director on the board.

"I am proud and honoured to join CART's board of directors and hope to assist the current board in helping CART attain the status that it deserves in motor racing," said Andretti. "While this is a business decision for me and my family, it has always been clear that my hreat is in CART and it will be my pleasure to help the series to grow."

CART boss Chris Pook said: "Mario Andretti is a true believer in the CART product, and has long been a great ambassador for our sport.

"We believe that Mario's experience in various forms of motor racing, as well as his business and marketing acumen, will compliment the strengths of the other members of the board of directors."

Andretti retired from Champ Car racing in 1994, having notched up 52 wins in the category. He holds the record for most Champ Car starts with 407 and the most pole positions with 67.