ASF/Andretti Green – Arie Luyendyk Jr. joins Matos in IPS
Michael Andretti, Chairman, Andretti Green Racing:
"Arie has proven in the past that he can be a successful driver in the Indy Pro Series. He finished second in the championship in 2002 and Kim (Green), Kevin (Savoree), Gary (Peterson) and I believe in his ability, for sure. We feel we've assembled quite a team and driver lineup in a short period of time. Just like in the IndyCar Series, we expect to win races and compete for the Indy Pro Series championship. By signing Rafa (Matos) and Arie, we feel like we've put ourselves in a position to contend right from the start."
Gary Peterson, Owner, AFS Racing:
"I believe in Arie's potential as a driver and AFS/Andretti Green Racing's ability to offer him what we believe to be the best car, equipment, engineer and crew in the Indy Pro Series today. I've driven with Arie when he raced for AFS Racing and know that he embraces the team concept. This was an important asset to Michael and me in selecting a teammate for Raphael (Matos). As a friend of the Luyendyk family, I've watched Arie transform into the mature, responsible driver he is today. I'm motivated by his commitment to move to Indianapolis to be closer to the team and work with the engineer and crew to make AFS/AGR the best team possible. This is his opportunity to shine and I appreciate Michael and everyone at AGR backing him."
Arie Luyendyk Jr., #26 AFS/Andretti Green Racing Dallara/Firestone:
"This is a very big opportunity for me and I'm very thankful that Andretti Green Racing and Automatic Fire Sprinklers have given me the chance to compete again in the Indy Pro Series. I've driven in many Indy Pro Series races and I feel like this is my best opportunity yet. Obviously, my goal is to win races and win the championship and I feel like I have a very good chance at doing that. Gary (Peterson) and I have a very nice relationship and I'm thrilled to be driving with AFS/AGR. Like any driver, my goal is to get into the IndyCar Series and I think joining AGR and AFS is the best route to take. Winning races in the Indy Pro Series means a lot more now than it did a few years ago. I want to show that I can win and prove to teams that I'm a contender for an IndyCar Series seat."