Manning re-signs for Ganassi

Manning joined the IRL and Ganassi this year after Tony Renna, who was originally signed for the seat, was killed in testing at Indianapolis. Darren is currently ninth in the championship, two places ahead of team-mate Scott Dixon, whose place on the team for next year was guaranteed back in May.

"We are very excited to continue our relationship with Darren, who has shown this season what a talented driver he is, how eager he is to learn and grow with our team," said team owner Chip Ganassi. "He has adapted quickly to every challenge and will certainly be an asset to the Target team as the IRL prepares to go road racing next season.

"We wanted to continue to build our relationship with Darren and look forward to a successful season with what we feel is a strong formula for success in the coming year with both he and Scott Dixon, as well as our partners, Target, Toyota and Panoz G Force."

Manning has finished in the top-five on four occasions this season, with a best finish of fourth.

"I'm thrilled to be returning with the Target team for the 2005 season," said Manning. "Coming to a championship team and a class organisation with a legacy for winning was an opportunity not many drivers get to have, but Chip Ganassi and the Target team gave me that chance to prove myself. It's given me a level of confidence and stability that I've never known and that I can truly appreciate."

The team's third car is likely to be driven by either Scott Sharp or Champ Car refugee Patrick Carpentier next year.