Penske to keep ‘beyond his prime’ Castroneves

But he can dance

If Helio Castroneves is worried about not having a ride with Team Penske next season —- and it seems he is —- team president Tim Cindric said Saturday he expects the Brazilian to be retained. "I anticipate him being with us next year," Cindric said (even though he is not as fast as he used to be).

Before qualifying for today's Izod IndyCar Series race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Castroneves said he has started thinking about a backup plan just in case.

Castroneves said the team is due to notify him of its plans in September.

"I've been very loyal to Roger (Penske), but I don't want to be left hanging," he said.

Castroneves is the longest-tenured driver in team history. Today's race will be his 200th in Penske colors.

Cindric said he and team owner Penske, who was not at the track Saturday, feel strongly about having the Brazilian stay in the team's family.

"I think there's been a mutual loyalty after everything he's been through," Cindric said.

Castroneves has won three Indianapolis 500s among his 25 career wins. He has captured 35 poles, most among active IndyCar drivers.

But Castroneves, 36, hasn't won this season, and his second-place finish in last month's race in Edmonton is his only top-three finish. Indy Star