Team PBIR has announced it has signed Richard Philippe for five of the final eight races of the 2009 Firestone Indy Lights schedule, beginning this weekend with the Corning 100 at Watkins Glen International.

The Frenchman takes over the car campaigned at the start of the year by former series champion Jay Howard, who budget has run dry, and will partner Charlie Kimball in each remaining round bar Toronto, Kentucky Speedway and Chicagoland.

"It is an honour to have Richard driving for our two-car team," said PBIR vice-president Kane Williams, "He is an extremely talented driver and has a wealth of experience to pass along to the team."

Philippe, brother of sometime IndyCar driver Nelson, recorded a season-best second place finish at Long Beach in April, and looks to emulate that in his five outings with PBIR.

"I am really excited about this opportunity," he said, having tested with the team at Indianapolis in May, "The team's crew is experienced and I think that will build my confidence, get the car set-up right and we will be competitive with the rest of the field right away."