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Scheckter confirmed at Panther

South African Tomas Scheckter was confirmed today (Saturday) as the new driver for Pennzoil Panther Racing in the IRL IndyCar Series to replace reigning champion Sam Hornish Jr, who switches to rivals Penske next year

The deal will cover two years, Panther CEO John Barnes said, but no other details were disclosed. Barnes said he knew as soon as Hornish told him he wouldn't return that Scheckter would be Panther's next driver.

"At that point in time, I knew who I wanted to hire," Barnes said. "A lot of things have been said about us not being able to win at the Speedway. I think this is the guy who can do it for us."

As a team-mate to Scott Dixon with Target Chip Ganassi Racing, Scheckter has had a disappointing season. While Dixon has won three races and is tied for the IRL points lead heading into Sunday's finale at Texas Motor Speedway, Scheckter hasn't won a race. However, he ranks second behind Dixon in laps led this season, and has finished among the top 10 in 10 of the 15 races.

The Panther car was the most coveted open seat in the IRL. Hornish has won three of the last five races and the previous two IRL championships in the car.

"I can't wait," Scheckter said. "The No. 4 car is always up front. These guys know how to make things work. I can't wait to get started."

Barnes said he intends to add a second car for the 2004 season. The team has tested several drivers, including former F3000 star Tomas Enge, IPS champion Mark Taylor and Dane Carter.

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