Scott Speed to Make IndyCar Debut at Indy 500

After failing to drive with much success in the Formula 1 series and NASCAR, American race driver Scott Speed has been confirmed by Dragon Racing for at least two outings in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series. The 28-year old will make his debut in the US premier open-wheel series later this month, in the famous Indy 500 race, after which he'll join the field once again for the season finale in Las Vegas.

His participation in the latter event has a lot to do with the financial part of this year's series, as any non-regular driver who gets to win the season finale will walk on home with a $5 million bonus in his pocket.

“It’s an honor to be able to partner with Jay Penske, Dragon Racing and a Hoosier legend like Fuzzy Zoeller for this year’s Indy 500 and my debut in the IndyCar Series,” said Speed, according to IndyCar's official website.

“Having the ability to compete in the Indy 500 is a dream for any racing driver, and I am proud to be partnered with such names as Jay Penske, Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka, American Racing and VIZIO in our attempt to drink the milk and win the biggest race in the world.”

Since the Indy 500 will be Speed's first race in an open-wheel racing series since he parted ways with Scuderia Toro Rosso in Formula 1, back in 2007, the American driver will undergo some testing mileage on May 9, at Chicagoland Speedway.

“I am thrilled that Scott chose Dragon Racing and this year's Indy 500 to make his IndyCar debut,” said team boss Jay Penske. “As one of America's finest open-wheel racers, Scott's past experience in Formula 1 and NASCAR make him a serious contender at this year's Indy 500 and at the IndyCar Challenge in Las Vegas.”