Photo Credit: Chris Owens/IndyCar
Speculation that five-time Verizon IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon is leaving Chip Ganassi Racing is finally put to rest; the team announced Dixon will return to Ganassi in 2019 and beyond.
The 38-year-old from New Zealand has been a Ganassi contracted driver since the middle of the 2002 racing season when he made the switch from PacWest Racing to Ganassi. The partnership has allowed the two to go on to win 43 races together, which includes the 2008 Indianapolis 500.
“I think when you mention the name Scott Dixon, the numbers and the records start to speak for themselves,” team owner Ganassi said in a release. “We have achieved a lot together, but there are no signs of him slowing down. He’s still the guy the championship goes through, and you know you have to beat him to get on the top step. He’s a driver that’s always thinking about the next race and how he’s going to approach it, attack it and ultimately win it. I’m very happy that we have the opportunity to continue this relationship and look forward to many more successful years together.”
Rumors had floated for several months that the Kiwi could be considering a move to McLaren’s rumored IndyCar program with Andretti Autosport where he would either be a teammate to Fernando Alonso, or drive the team’s sole car.
The announcement of Dixon’s return comes before the series makes its next trip to Pocono Raceway this weekend. Dixon currently leads the points by 46 over Alexander Rossi in search of his sixth title.
“I have always said I have a massive amount of respect for Chip and what he’s done in this sport. This is not an easy business,” Dixon said. “His resume speaks for itself, and he’s the type of team owner any driver would want to drive for. He gives you the tools you need to go out and get the job done, with the right group of people. This team has been like a family to me since way back in 2002, and I’m glad I’ll be here trying to fight for more wins, championships and Indianapolis 500s for years to come.”
Details of the multi-year extension have not yet been released.
