When Sam Schmidt and Dragon Racing announced their partnership for the 2011 Indy 500, many believed that Chinese Ho-Pin-Tung was Jay Penske's choice as a substitute of Paul Tracy for the event. Yet, Dragon Racing surprised once again after announcing that ex-F1 and NASCAR driver Scott Speed has partnered with Dragon Racing in an attempt to qualify for the 100th anniversary Indianapolis 500. In fact, if Speed will be successful in securing one of the 33 spots, Speed would join Juan Pablo Montoya and Jacques Villeneuve as the only drivers to have competed in the Indy 500 (IndyCars), Brickyard 400 (NASCAR) and United States Grand Prix (F1).
Scot Speed's No. 20 car. Dragon Racing entry will be sponsored by Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka, American Racing Wheels and VIZIO
The American driver who had been a driver of RedBull Racing in both F1 and NASCAR commented:
“It’s an honor to be able to partner with Jay Penske, Dragon Racing and a Hoosier legend like Fuzzy Zoeller for this year’s Indy 500 and my debut in the IndyCar Series. Having the ability to compete in the Indy 500 is a dream for any racing driver, and I am proud to be partnered with such names as Jay Penske, Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka, American Racing and VIZIO in our attempt to drink the milk and win the biggest race in the world.”
Dragon Racing also announced that will field an entry for Speed at the IZOD INDYCAR World Championships finale at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Owner of Dragon Racing, Jay Penske commented:
“I am thrilled that Scott chose Dragon Racing and this year’s Indy 500 to make his IndyCar debut. As one of America’s finest open-wheel racers, Scott’s past experience in Formula 1 and NASCAR make him a serious contender at this year’s Indy 500 and at the INDYCAR challenge in Las Vegas. I would like to thank Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka, American Racing/Motegi and VIZIO for their incredible support as we prepare for this year’s Indy 500.”
