Wilson, not Rahal to Panther in 2011
09/20/10 Everybody has me going to Panther or KV but they are missing the most obvious choice and that may be to stay right where I'm at," Wilson told SI.com Sunday morning in the garage.
That gives team owner Dennis Reinbold confidence that he can keep the talented driver from England.
"We have talked to him about it and we are trying to work through it," Reinbold said. "I think we are in the mix to keep Justin, but I don't know what the outcome will be. I don't know what we are up against which is why we are keeping all of our options open and talking to everyone. We have some things happening that we think we will improve next year. We could be a one-car team, a two-car team or a three-car team next year. I know we will be at least a one-car team and at least be a two-car team but we have so many things in the air right now we are looking to work that out."
Panther Racing sources also confirmed an interest in Rahal to take over the No. 4 National Guard entry because of his talent and the fact that he would be the first American driver that would be sponsored by the National Guard since it became an IndyCar sponsor. In the past, the Guard has sponsored Vitor Meira of Brazil and Wheldon from England in that ride.
Rahal, however, said he would not be surprised to see a non-American driver, such as Wilson, get the Guard ride and doesn't believe it is an absolute requirement that the next driver for the National Guard be from the United States.
"I have an interest in driving for Panther Racing next year and we have discussed that possibility," Rahal said prior to Saturday's qualifications. "We continue to talk but there are a lot of other drivers such as Justin Wilson who are also interested in that ride." SI.com
09/07/10 According to AutoRacing1.com sources Justin Wilson is now in the catbird seat to replace the departing Dan Wheldon at Panther Racing.
09/07/10 In a post-race interview from Kentucky on VERSUS Saturday night, Panther Racing's Dan Wheldon said "I've got to find a job for next year," confirming one of the worst-kept secrets in the paddock.
08/31/10 Hearing that he definitely is not signed, but he is under consideration. Rumor has it that the team may still owe Wheldon some money, and may be forced to run him again at a reduced cost.
08/30/10 Rumor has it that Graham Rahal may have signed with Panther Racing for next year to replace Dan Wheldon in the National Guard car.