Wheldon to stay with Panther

Former Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon confirmed Monday that he will return to Panther Racing despite having the least-productive season of his IndyCar Series career. Wheldon's second-place finish in the 500 was one of three top-three finishes this season.

After winning at least two races in each of the previous five seasons, the 2005 series champion did not reach victory lane this year, finishing 10th in the standings.

With 15 victories, Wheldon ranks fourth among drivers who have competed in the IndyCar Series (since 1996). He had averaged 543 laps led per season over the past five seasons, but he led only. eight this season. The Indianapolis Star