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Unser: 'Time is right to retire'

Al Unser Jr has confirmed his retirement from US open-wheel racing, closing the book on a glittering career that included victories in the 1992 and 1994 Indianapolis 500

Unser said he felt the time was right to call time on his driving career.

"I have always said that I would get out of the race car if driving stopped being fun for me and if I felt that I was no longer competitive on the track," he said. "After careful thought, I came to this conclusion just after the Richmond race and knew that it was time for me to retire. So, true to my word, I am stepping out of the car.

"My decision is purely based on my feelings as a race car driver. It is no reflection whatsoever on the Patrick Racing team. While I will not be behind the wheel, my intentions are to remain very active in racing in some capacity with Patrick Racing in the IRL and, of course, in support of my son Al's racing activities.

"As I make this transition in my career, I wish to thank my family and all the fans that have supported me and my racing career since my childhood. The accomplishments, rewards, friendships and memories that I take with me today are so meaningful because of you."

Tony George, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, said: "Very few race drivers will ever accomplish as much on the race track as Al has during his career. As a competitor he has upheld the Unser tradition and added balance to their legacy during the last 20-plus years. But more importantly, I have considered him one of my very best friends.

"Only he would know when the time was right to call it a career, and he has my support and best wishes, and I am sure he has the same from his fans."

Unser will remain with Patrick Racing as an advisor.

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