Penske to put Helio back in car at Long Beach

UPDATE #2 The IndyCar Series today released the following statement from Brian Barnhart, president of competition and racing operations for the Indy Racing League, regarding Helio Castroneves return to Penske Racing and the IndyCar Series:

“We couldn’t be happier for Penske Racing, Helio Castroneves and his family and look forward to having him back on the race grid at Long Beach. Helio has played an integral part in the growth of the IndyCar Series on and off the race track the past few years and has an incredible legion of fans. He is a true star in every sense of the word and his infectious personality, popularity and success on the race track is welcomed back."

04/17/09 Penske's Tim Cindric said he told Helio on the phone that "We have a car ready for you," and a happy Helio responded "I'm coming man."

04/17/09 Penske Racing announced Friday at Long Beach that Helio Castroneves will be back in the No. 3 Penske car at Long Beach Saturday. Will Power will be moved over to the No. 12 Verizon Wireless car the rest of this weekend and for the Indy 500 – just 2 races for right now. Penske Racing boss Roger Penske expressed happiness for Helio that he was acquitted and the team was behind him all the way. IRL boss Brian Barnhart said the IRL was happy to get Helio back in the series. More to follow…