Meira lands full-time Menard drive

Jaques Lazier, who won at Chicago for the team in 2001, was released from the team to make room for Meira, who has been Menard's designated test driver this season. The Brazilian finished 12th at Indy, despite having just three days of practice in the car.

"Vitor has continued to impress us with his patience and determination," said team boss John Menard. "We put him to the test at Indy and he passed with flying colours. We want to give him a chance to gain experience on all the ovals we visit in the IndyCar series to prepare for what I hope will be a championship effort next season."

As well as this year's Indy 500, Meira competed for the team in four races last season, earning a best result of third at Texas. Meira is looking forward to returning to the track for this weekend's race.

"Texas Motor Speedway will be the first time in the IndyCar Series where I am going to a track where I have already raced," he said. "We have a good baseline for that track. I am really looking forward to driving the Team Menard car again."