KV Racing Technology announced today that Mario Moraes will return to drive with the team for the full 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series season. Moraes will drive the No. 32 Banco Panamericano Dallara-Honda, beginning this weekend at the season-opening Sao Paulo Indy 300 on the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil.
“We are very pleased to have Mario back in the seat with KVRT,” said General Manager Mark Johnson. “Mario showed last season he can be very competitive and is in the process of becoming one of the top talents in the series. He has grown and matured on and off the racetrack over the last year due in part to the support of his family and the many positive influences in his life. Mario finished the 2009 season with very strong results and I would expect more of the same starting this weekend in Sao Paulo.”
Moraes, 21, will team with Takuma Sato and E.J. Viso in Brazil.
“I want to thank Kevin Kalkhoven, Jimmy Vasser and my sponsor Banco Panamericano for helping me and giving me this opportunity,” Moraes said. “Being in the car to start the season is very important for me, especially since the first race is in my hometown. KVRT is one of the best teams in the IZOD IndyCar Series and I am looking forward to working with everyone on the team again. Hopefully, we can continue the success we enjoyed at the end of last season.”
Former Honda Formula 1 test driver James Rossiter had also hoped to be with KV this weekend after testing for the team at Barber Motorsports Park last month, but he was unable to complete a deal in time. He is still optimistic that he can join the team for the second round in St. Petersburg at the end of March.