Franchitti to make AGR return

The Scot switched moved across from CART with the team at the start of last season, but only competed in three races because of his accident. There had been speculation that Franchitti would return to the Champ Car World Series for 2004, but Andretti Green has confirmed that he will remain in the all-oval series.

"To say I'm eager to get going again would be a huge understatement," said Franchitti. "My recovery has been going very well and I know I'm not quite through the process yet, but I really can't wait to get back in an AGR car and work with my guys. I am very focussed on getting back to 100 percent."

Franchitti's back was operated on in July by orthopaedic surgeon Dr Terry Trammell, a key member of CART's safety team. It is expected that the Scot will be given medical clearance to drive in mid-January.

Franchitti will line up alongside Brazilian Tony Kanaan and fellow Briton Dan Wheldon at Andretti Green next year.

Team co-owner Michael Andretti said: "Andretti Green Racing is really looking forward to having Dario back full-time next season. He will definitely give Andretti Green and Honda another real shot at winning the series championship because of his technical feedback, his team leadership and obviously his proven ability to win."

Franchitti's confirmation means that four British drivers will run in the IRL next year. Along with AGR's British duo, Darren Manning will race for Ganassi, while Infiniti Pro Series champion Mark Taylor will drive for Panther.