Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Rossi heads to Indycar with Andretti Autosport

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Alexander Rossi failed to secure a drive with Manor Racing this year in Formula 1 but the 24-year-old American's efforts to keep himself busy in 2016 have paid off with an opportunity to race in the 2016 Verizon Indycar Series for Andretti Autosport.

Rossi will enjoy his first ride in the team's N°98 Dallara-Honda as soon as March 1 during a rookie test scheduled at Sebring.

"I'm very much looking forward to making my IndyCar Series debut this season and am proud to be racing with a team of such high calibre and pedigree as that of Andretti Autosport," said Rossi.

"As a racer through and through, I cannot wait to get started; our goal is to be competitive immediately at the first race in St. Petersburg."

The No. 98 entry recently joined the Andretti stable as a result of a merger between Bryan Herta Autosport and Michael Andretti’s organization. Herta will serve as the race strategist for Rossi in the combined team effort.

"We're really excited to have Alexander join the team," said Andretti Autosport CEO Michael Andretti.

"His credentials speak for his ability and we're confident he'll transition seamlessly into IndyCar racing."

While Rossi's attempts to make the most of the opportunity provided by Andretti Autosport, he still hasn't abandoned hopes of returning to Formula 1, and will continue to size up any potential possibilities which may arise.

Follow live coverage and timing from pre-season testing here

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GALLERY: Pre-season testing day one

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.