Three More Years of Dixon and Ganassi

“If it ain’t broke then don’t fix it.” Words Chip Ganassi has decided to live by in extending a three-year deal to the Iceman for being an all-around swell driver. No doubt the New Zealander was concerned about his future prospects after two years in Toyota-powered purgatory, but Dixon put all that misery way behind him after remaining in contention for the IndyCar series championship until the final race in Chicagoland in 2006.

The contract contains an out-clause for Dixon should he decide to hook up with a Formula One team. The odds are probably against that, although considering how consistently competitive he has been on the few road courses in the IRL it’s not a totally far-fetched possibility. Near-fetched, perhaps, but still unlikely.

For many reasons it's always good to see any of the previous series champions stay in the league. It means stability for the series and safer driving on the tracks. It also means another recognizable face for the casual fan. Rookies are fun, but you don't want half a field full of them...like some other series.

And even though he’s a comparatively low-key personality, Dixon is no less of a presence due to his skills as a driver. He’s arguably the best all-around driver in the series, and along with Tony Kanaan he’s tied for “Best Current Driver Who Hasn’t Won the Indy 500”.