Ryan Hunter-Reay has secured his long-term future in the Verizon IndyCar Series after agreeing to remain with Andretti Autosport until 2020.
The partnership between the team and the driver began in 2010 and has taken them to an IndyCar title as well as an Indianapolis 500 triumph, and despite a disappointing year when Andretti Autosport struggled, the American is not ready to go elsewhere.
As well as Hunter-Reay, his sponsors DHL will also remain on board until 2020, with that deal having began in 2011 and having encompassed both his title and Indy 500 wins.
“I couldn’t be happier about this announcement and the opportunity to continue with Andretti Autosport as an ambassador for DHL,” said Hunter-Reay. “These next four years will take us to nearly a decade-long relationship with DHL and a full 11 years with the team.
“We’ve won 13 races together, the Indy 500 and the IndyCar Championship and we’re going to do a lot more together. Over the years we have become more of a family than just a team and sponsor. I’m proud to represent this group and this brand and am looking forward to the milestones yet to come.”
Team boss Michael Andretti is delighted that Hunter-Reay has penned a new contract with his team, and is hoping for more success going forward from the partnership.
“I can’t express how pleased we are to be able to announce that Ryan will be returning through 2020,” said Andretti.
“Ryan is one of the top – if not the top – driver in the series, and has been a leader within the team since he started with us in 2010, winning in only his third race.
“Ryan has won 13 races, an IndyCar Championship and the Indy 500 with Andretti Autosport, and I have no doubt this partnership will put us in a position for further success.”
With Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti now confirmed and with the team hopeful that Carlos Munoz will remain for a further season, Andretti Autosport could field an unchanged line-up in 2017.