Enge confirmed at Panther
Former grand prix driver Tomas Enge has become the latest European racing star to make a full-time switch to the IRL IndyCar Series, with the Panther Racing team confirming that he will team-up with Tomas Scheckter this season
Enge is no stranger to the IRL, having taken part in the final two events of 2004 with Panther Racing, and will help carry Chevrolet's hopes of a winning end to its tenure in the category.
Speaking at a press conference where his deal was confirmed, Enge said: "Last year was my first introduction to oval racing, and it was very different from what I was used to. But I could feel what it was like, and I spent the off-season analysing where could I change my style to better adapt to it.
"I'll do everything I can to help Chevrolet beat the Japanese competitors."
Panther Racing co-owner John Barnes expressed his delight at the signing of Enge, as the team hopes to make amends for failing to score a single podium finish last year - despite it winning back-to-back titles with Sam Hornish Jr. in 2001 and 2002.
"We were impressed with Tomas ever since testing him some three years ago [in 2003]," said Barnes. "Unfortunately, the stars and moons didn't align until now, but after Patrick Racing let us know what Tomas could do last year, we couldn't be more excited for the upcoming season.
"Last year was tough, but it gave us humility, and we're confident we'll now run at the front."
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