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Carpentier joins Cheever

Patrick Carpentier has joined IRL IndyCar Series team Cheever Racing for the 2005 season, according to statement made by the team he drove for in this year's Champ Car World Series - Forsythe Racing

The French-Canadian, who won for Forsythe at Laguna Seca, indicated in late-September that he intended to switch to the IRL next year despite finishing ahead of team-mates Paul Tracy and Rodolfo Lavin in the final standings.

"Patrick Carpentier called me last night from Indianapolis to advise me that he had signed a contract with Cheever Racing to drive in the IRL in 2005," said team owner and OWRS partner Gerald Forsythe in the statement. "Patrick has been with the team since 1998 and I've enjoyed seeing him develop as a driver over the years to become one of the leading and most competitive drivers in Champ Car.

"Patrick has proved himself to be a genuine championship contender in recent years. He will be especially missed at our highly attended and great events in Canada where he is a popular local hero.

"I think it is a shame that Pat has decided to make a move now, and frankly I don't think this is a good career choice for him personally - but this is his decision."

Carpentier told Autosport in September that he would be moving to the IRL for 2005, but would not reveal the identity of the team at the time: "It's a really good deal financially and it's a good team. I've enjoyed my time in Champ Car, but I've got to go where I'm wanted. I just didn't have any interest from that side unless I brought money."

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