When there is a driver injury there is always another driver ready for the substitution on IZOD IndyCars and if entry's main sponsor wants a specific driver to race then the selection of the substitution is even more specific. For the case of the injured Mike Conway, Dreyer & Reinbold Racing's main sponsor the wheel manufacturer, Motegi Racing Wheels has chosen to support once more veteran Paul Tracy to drive team’s No. 24 Motegi Racing Wheels/ Dreyer & Reinbold Racing / Dallara entry for the next 2 events at Kentucky Speedway and Twin Ring Motegi.
The Canadian is the most sensible choice both for Motegi Racing Wheels and Dreyer & Reinbold Racing as he doesn't only posses the necessary skill and popularity but also the experience to race on ovals. Tracy, the 2003 Champ Car World Series champion is one of the most successful drivers in the history of open-wheel racing as he is found among the top-10 in almost every Champ Car career statistical category including wins, 31 (tied for seventh all-time), poles, 25 (ninth all-time), and laps led, 4,238 (sixth all-time) in 270 events. However, being in his 20th Indy season he runs out of a full season sponsor when less talented drivers are found in the grid.
Paul Tracy commented during the announcement:
"It's great to be back with the Dreyer & Reinbold Racing again this year. I'm excited to have the opportunity to run some ovals with the team. It's been a while since I've raced on an oval but I'm ready for the challenge with the next two races plus I have some experience in Japan. Many thanks to Robbie & Dennis again for welcoming me to their team. Motegi Racing Wheels also deserves a big thanks for sticking by me. I'm also looking forward to working with Justin (Wilson) again. I also want to thank my personal sponsors for their continued support; Motegi Racing Wheels, CEC Wheels, Oakley, Kicker Car Audio & MONSTER Energy."
Motegi Racing Wheels president, Jody Groce commented:
"Motegi Racing Wheels is excited to be supporting one of the most exciting drivers, Paul Tracy for the Kentucky and Japan races. We've known the type of energy, honesty and excitement that PT brings to the series. Motegi Racing Wheels has had a great experience this year being associated with PT and certainly the Dreyer & Reinbold Team. It's certainly been a great relationship and we appreciate the opportunity to work with Dennis & Robbie this year."
After driving with KV racing at the Canadian Indy Races, Tracy first ran with the team aat Watkins Glen and he will be making his return with DRR for the next 2 ovals.
Dreyer & Reinbold Racing Co-Owner, Robbie Buhl commented:
"Dreyer & Reinbold Racing couldn't be more excited to have him on board. "We are very happy to have Paul back with us for the next two events. He’s a great driver and big personality and we are thrilled to have him driving for us in Kentucky and Japan. Paul did a great job for us in Watkins Glen and we can’t wait to get him on an oval with us. We are also thrilled to have Motegi Racing Wheels with us for the two races as well. We have developed a great relationship with them and we know that Paul and Motegi Racing Wheels will be a great combination for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for the next two events"
