[broadrun96]

Originally Posted by Jonerz

So the hot rumor is Brendon Hartley, but nothing has been signed with him (apparently). He's also in contention for the Torro Rosso seat next year, so he might be holding off in hopes for an F1 ride, which has been his long held career ambition.

Felix Rosenqvist was first choice, and the attraction was mutual, but his Formula E ride for next year bars him from making a jump to IndyCar until 2019. Not sure if Chip will have the money then...

Chip's budget has decreased significantly. Charlie Kimball probably could have stayed at Ganassi had his budget from Novo Nordisk not been decreased for 2018. Chilton was going through an ugly growth spurt this past season, and frustration mounted on both his sides, and so the split was mutual.

Those two both want to stay in IndyCar, so the natural assumption is they return as teammates, this time with Carlin, which has aspirations to expand into IndyCar.

Chris

Originally Posted by Jonerz

He's probably third in line for the Torro Rosso seat next year.

Of course, the Ganassi seat fell to him, he was second choice there.

Chris

Think that's exactly what is holding things up. Now that they have him in the car this weekend things could move forward. But if he runs well enough they want to keep him around STR needs 2 drivers for next season and there aren't many super license holders out there STR will want in their car and Red Bull has driven off most of their junior drivers the last few years.