Andretti Green Racing co-owner Michael Andretti has welcomed the news that a deal has been reached on the unification of the American open-wheel racing scene.
Andretti, a winner of the Champ Car World Series title during his racing career and now the brains behind one of the IndyCar Series' top teams, was amongst those to speak out in support of the move, which was finally confirmed on Friday evening after weeks of talks.
It will bring to an end the acrimonious split between the two factions to form one series, which will incorporate the leading events from Champ Car onto the IndyCar schedule with a number of teams also set to move to the new series.
"This is a huge day for the IndyCar Series and for our sport as a whole, for sure," he said. "Over the years, whether I was in the role of driver, team owner or promoter, I have always wanted a unified sport. That has been my only goal throughout this entire process and I applaud everyone who played a role in making this happen.
"So many people have worked tirelessly, both publicly and behind the scenes, to get this done. Everyone can now focus on taking the IndyCar Series to new heights for the good of our sport and everyone involved in it."
President and chief operating officer Kevin Savoree was also behind the announcement of a merger, stating that the fans have got what they wanted with the formation of a strong, competitive series.
"As a lifelong fan of IndyCar racing, I'm thrilled to hear that there will be one, unified series in this country," he said. "The sport is filled with so many exciting drivers, colourful characters, strong, competitive teams and incredible venues that I know everyone is just ready to get at it. Andretti Green Racing certainly is going to be ready for the challenge.
"We feel privileged to compete in the IndyCar Series and today's announcement only strengthens an already highly-competitive series. This is a day that racing fans have been anticipating for some time and I think it will provide unbelievable entertainment for years to come."
