"Everybody at Panther thinks the world of Hideki Mutoh and we enjoyed being able to work with him this past season. This was a good opportunity for him, but we certainly would have enjoyed having him in a Panther car. Our relationship as driver and team has changed, but I know our friendship never will. He is a phenomenal talent and an even better person. We wish Hideki and the Super Aguri Company the best in the future with their new team and we look forward to competing with them in the IndyCar Series." - John Barnes, courtesy of TrackSide OnlineThat's an incredibly classy response considering Barnes and his Panther Racing team lost not only a great young driver, but also the sponsorship packages for both an IndyCar and Indy Pro team as well.
I Hope I’m Wrong on This
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Longtime followers of this site know what I think about AJ Foyt. He was my
favorite driver as I attended many Indianapolis 500s of the mid-to-late
sixties....
12 hours ago
It's got to be killing John Barnes to lose Mutoh to AGR, but that was a classy press release.
If Wreckter can get the $$$$$$$$$ together, I'd like to see him back at Panther. After all he did give them a win back in 2005. And he wrecked less cars this past season. Unfortunately, like everything in racing lately, it all hinges on sponsorship.