Andretti leaving CART to join IRL

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2002 | 9:42 a.m.

SUN STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

Michael Andretti ended weeks of speculation when he announced Tuesday he would leave CART and join the rival Indy Racing League with Dario Franchitti and Tony Kanaan as his teammates for the 2003 season.

Andretti, CART's career victory leader, recently bought Team Green from car owner Barry Green. He will begin running the new Andretti Green Racing team on Dec. 1 with partners Kim Green, Barry's brother, and Kevin Savoree.

"This is a milestone for Andretti Green Racing," Andretti said. "We are excited to announce our entry into the Indy Racing League and I am particularly happy to know that Dario and Tony will be my teammates."

The move follows the switch this season of the dominant Team Penske to IRL and a decision by CART's top two engine manufacturers, Honda and Toyota, to jump to the IRL for next season.

"Honda's history and commitment to racing are second to none, and were a major factor in my decision to come to Team Green in 2001," Andretti said.

"My experience with Honda the past two seasons has only deepened my respect for their dedication and professionalism, and I look forward to continuing our successful relationship in the IRL."

Franchitti is third in CART points this season; Andretti is eighth, and Kanaan is 13th.

"Team Green, Honda and I have enjoyed a lot of success together," Franchitti said. "I've always had a lot of respect for Michael, but working with him as a teammate the past two years has strengthened our relationship. Adding Tony to the mix is the icing on the cake."

Franchitti has earned nine victories and 31 podium finishes since joining Team Green in 1998.

Kanaan moves to Andretti Green after three seasons with Morris Nunn Racing. Before that, Kanaan drove for Forsythe Racing and won the 1999 Michigan 500.

"Andretti Green Racing, Honda, Michael Andretti and Dario Franchitti -- wow," Kanaan said. "It's an honor to be part of that program. I know this first full season of IRL competition will be a challenge to all of us, but I can't think of better partners."

The sponsorship details of Andretti Green's IRL program still are being finalized but Andretti said the Motorola, Archipelago, 7-Eleven and Klein Tools brands intend to be on the AGR cars. Andretti said his choice of chassis would be announced at a later date.

"We had considered later timing for this announcement when all program details were final," Andretti said. "However, with all the speculation about Andretti Green's direction, we felt it important to our partners and employees to announce these key elements of our 2003 plans.

"We will announce additional information about our 2003 programs as soon as possible."