Hemelgarn makes late entry to series

Hemelgarn and Lazier have started 70 of the 71 races in IndyCars since 1996. They have combined to win a record-equalling eight races, including the 1996 Indianapolis 500 and the 2000 IndyCar championship.

Lazier, 35, will drive a Dallara-Chevrolet at the season-opening Toyota Indy 300 at Homestead this weekend, despite doubts about the team's funding which has meant no pre-season testing.

"Even without testing, I think we can definitely be a contender in Miami," claimed Lazier. "I know the track and more importantly, I am confident in the ability of my team. I think we'll shock everybody and finish strong."

Team boss Ron Hemelgarn said: "I realise we're starting the 2003 season later than we'd like, but I feel my team and driver have always responded well to pressure. Our team is building a new car as we speak. When we arrive in Miami we will spend all practice sessions working on race set-ups. If our history of adversity repeats itself, we're in good shape. In 1996, we were unable to test for the Indy 500 because Buddy lay in the hospital with a broken back. The result? We won!"