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Andretti Autosport Pushes Kanaan into Free Agency

Former IRL champion Tony Kanaan has now become a free agent, after his team Andretti Autosport officially announced it has parted ways with the Brazilian racer. Rumors about his ousting from the team have circulated in the media for quite some time, since his sponsor 7-Eleven announced it will not extend is deal with the organization ran by Michael Andretti after 2010.

However, it was only today confirmed that Kanaan will not be driving for Andretti anymore. He will therefore put an end to a fruitful period of time in his career, some 8 years in which he won no less than 14 races and one championship title. His first season with Andretti's team happened back in 2003, a year before his first and only title in the North-American racing series.

I don't agree with some things and it's very disappointing but I have no hard feelings,” he admitted in a recent interview with speedtv.com.

It's sad because I wanted to be there. It's been my home for nine years and I have a lot of great memories but it's life, it's reality, and now I've got to find a new home,” added the 35-year old driver.

As far as his future goes, the Brazilian racer admitted that money will not play an important role in finding a team for the 2011 IRL season, but performance. He will aim for an organization able to hand him a race winning machine and, even though he parted ways with Andretti now, that doesn't mean he won't return here if he considers necessary.

I know some people might think they can't afford me but I'm not looking for money right now, I'm looking for a competitive team where I can go and win races (...). You know it sounds crazy but if I get a good sponsor and bringing it back to Michael is my best option, that's what I'll do,” he added.
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