Dale Coyne says he wishes his 2009 driver/sponsor combo of Justin Wilson and Z-Line Designs well as they move to Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for 2010.
He said, “I talked with Jim Sexton [CEO and founder of Z-Line] last Friday and understand why he made the switch. I wish to personally thank Jim and Monica Sexton for their support over the past two years. The new relationship and media aspect are great opportunities for Z-Line and their new partnership with Charter Communications and Dreyer & Reinbold Racing.
“Of course, I'm also sorry to lose Justin. Last year's race at Watkins Glen was unforgettable, and I want to thank him for making Dale Coyne Racing one of only three teams to score a win in the IZOD IndyCar Series. You never forget your first time, right?!”
Coyne remains positive for 2010, having retained famed race engineer Bill Pappas and chief mechanic Mitch Davis to work on the recently announced Boy Scouts of America car. Given that Boy Scouts and Indianapolis Motor Speedway are celebrating their centennials in 2010, Coyne says that this is attracting a lot of positive talk with potential sponsors. However, he has not yet finalized a driver.
“Obviously Graham Rahal would be our first candidate, for both his speed and the image we'd want to portray for the No. 19 car,” said Coyne of the American ace who, currently, has no ride for 2010. “Graham's a proven winner who matured a lot as team leader at Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing last year.”
“If I were to put a second name out there, I'd say J.R. Hildebrand,” Coyne continued. “He's Indy Lights champ, and I know he'd shine in the big cars. If [Atlantic Series champion] John Edwards or [runner-up] Jonathan Summerton had Indy Lights – particularly, oval – experience, I'd add them to the list.”