Columnist Brian Hilderbrand: Papis joins Sigma Autosport after release by Rahal

Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2002 | 10:11 a.m.

Brian Hilderbrand covers motor sports for the Las Vegas Sun. His motor sports notebook appears Friday. He can be reached at bh@lasvegassun.com or (702) 259-4089.

Max Papis, released by Team Rahal after the 2001 season, has signed a contract to drive for Sigma Autosport in the CART FedEx Championship Series this season.

Papis, 32, will take over for driver Oriel Servia in the No. 22 Lola/Ford-Cosworth -- the same package he drove to two wins last season with Team Rahal.

"Since I was a little kid I dreamed about racing and winning, but I also imagined how and what tools were necessary to accomplish my goal," Papis said.

"If today I can consider myself among an elite group of drivers that compete in one of the most prestigious world championships, it's because I was able to follow my path with will and dedication, believing in myself, my values and always working for the team. I never give up, not even during difficult times."

Sigma owner Tom Wieringa said he is looking forward to working with Papis this season.

"We are very happy to have Max come on board with Sigma," Wieringa said. "Having Max on the team, coupled with other recent enhancements, positions us with a chance to win the CART title. His background and talent will help the team through this promising season."

Sigma Autosport is beginning its second season in CART.

"(He is) kind of a European hot shoe with Formula One aspirations." Cheever said of Scheckter, the son of 1979 F1 champion Jody Scheckter. "We have had a successful test."

The test was closed to the public and media, and no times were disclosed.

"We are testing (in) Las Vegas because it is a great track, great facility," Cheever said. "I look forward to the day that we come back here to race again.

"We are getting ready for our Test in the West, which will be February 6. It starts in Fontana and continues to Phoenix.

"We have been doing some engine development for Nissan and we tested some parts for Dallara. We are trying to get as much information as we can."

Ray and Knapp worked together at Team Menard for Ray's 1999 IRL championship and had put their car on the pole for the 2000 Indianapolis 500. The pair split up when Knapp abruptly left the Menard team in August of that year.

"The combination of Greg Ray and Thomas Knapp has proven to be successful time and again," Kelley Racing general manager Jim Freudenberg said. "We're excited they both have come on board with Kelley Racing."

Barrichello's car went off course at nearly 150 mph, hit a tire barrier and flipped. He was examined after complaining of a sore shoulder, but was sent home after no fractures were found.

Turkish officials, who believe a grand prix would attract tourism to the country, need to raise $60 million to $70 million to construct the circuit.