Pennzoil and Panther extend deal to 2006.

Pennzoil and Panther Racing have confirmed that they will continue their Indy Racing League association through 2005, extending one of the most recognisable partnerships in the championship.

The Pennzoil and Panther Racing association was first announced in the autumn of 1997, and the familiar yellow #4 car made its competition debut in January 1998 at the Walt Disney World Speedway with Scott Goodyear behind the wheel. Since the start of the 2001 season, Sam Hornish Jr has driven the Pennzoil Panther Racing car.

"Racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and in open-wheel competition, is an integral part of Pennzoil's heritage, and we are excited to continue our association with Panther Racing," said Jim Postl, president of Pennzoil Quaker State, "As we complete 2003, our fifth year as the primary sponsor of Panther Racing, we are excited to announce that we will continue the association through 2005."

Panther finished second in the IRL championship in 2000 with Goodyear behind the wheel and took the top step as champions in 2001, Hornish's first season carrying the Pennzoil colours. Team co-owner John Barnes was elated for Hornish and the Pennzoil Panther Pack, but just as happy for Pennzoil to be on top.

"I have been involved with teams at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway since 1968, and I can say without a doubt that Pennzoil is by far the best company that I have had the opportunity to represent," Barnes said, "Pennzoil has made a significant commitment to the Indy Racing League through its partnership with Panther Racing and bringing them a series championship was the highlight of my racing career. Now we need to bring them another Indianapolis win."

In addition to the extended partnership with Pennzoil, Panther Racing also announced that it would continue a technical relationship with GM Racing and Chevrolet at least through to the end of the 2005 IRL season.

"General Motors has supplied Panther Racing and Speedway Engines with tremendous support since 1998, and we are looking forward to continuing our winning relationship with Chevrolet," said Panther Racing co-owner and Indianapolis Chevrolet dealer Gary Pedigo, "It is special for me to have the products I sell everyday - Pennzoil and Chevrolet automobiles - represented on the track by Panther Racing."