Herta to drive for McDonald's team

The move follows team owner Jerry Forsythe's decision to allow Tony Kanaan to leave the team.

The Brazilian is expected to join CART veteran Mo Nunn's new squad, to drive a Mercedes-powered Champ Car in the 2000 series.

'As one door closes, another opens,' Forsythe said, 'and we are extremely pleased to have a driver of Bryan's caliber and experience behind the wheel of our new Honda-Swift package. He will be a strong addition to our team.

Herta, 29, who was released by Team Rahal at the end of 1999 after a four-year stint, will be reunited with Steve Horne and Steve Ragan at the squad.

Team president Horne and chief mechanic Ragan worked with Herta at Horne's former outfit Tasman Motorsports Group, to take the 1993 Indy Lights championship.

'I'm excited to be back with Steve Horne and Steve Ragan,' said Herta, who has won two CART races [Laguna Seca, 1998 and 1999], 'and I can't wait to get on the track this week and get started with development of the Swift chassis.'