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Michael Shank Racing releases Jay Howard from Indianapolis 500 contract as team's engine search continues

Michael Shank Racing has released Jay Howard from its Indianapolis 500 line-up as it has yet to source an engine supplier for the race

The team, which won the Daytona 24 Hours earlier in the year, announced in April that it would run former Indy Lights champion Howard in the race, but that its entry remained subject to finding a powerplant for the 31-year-old Briton.

With time running out before practice begins on May 12, Howard is keen to ensure that he will be on the grid for the race, and is now looking to fill a seat elsewhere.

Should he not do so, the current entry list will drop below the race's traditional 33-car field.

"I was really looking forward to working with Mike and helping him finally get into IndyCar," said Howard.

"For me personally, I have to keep moving forward and I remain committed to IndyCar and competing in this year's Indy 500. I remain optimistic that IndyCar and the engine manufacturers will continue in my corner so we can collectively fill that 33rd spot this year."

Team boss Michael Shank said that he did not want to make Howard miss out on a potential seat with another team, but that he remains hopeful of being on the grid for the race.

"We are working every possible opportunity to make this happen and continue to hold our entry for the Indianapolis 500," he said. "But at this point, we've not made the progress that we need to in terms of having our package finalised and having an agreement with a motor manufacturer.

"I know first hand how hard it is to have the opportunity to race in the Indianapolis 500, and the last thing in the world I want to do is to hold Jay back from getting the chance to do that."

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