Target Chip Ganassi Racing and newly created Integra Motorsports have announced a partnership to campaign Marc Williams in the Firestone Indy Lights Series beginning at the St. Pete 100 this weekend.

Williams will drive the #9 Cool Blue Water entry as part of the Chip Ganassi Racing Teams, Inc. driver development programme, adding another level of global appeal to its stable of 12 drivers representing six countries over six series.

The 19-year-old recorded two top-10 finishes in six starts last season and he would like nothing more than to follow the path set by Target IndyCar Series driver and fellow New Zealander Scott Dixon.

'This is an opportunity of a lifetime,' Williams said. 'Working with a team like Target Chip Ganassi Racing that is seen on a global level is really just an absolute dream come true.

'I intend on making the most out of this opportunity. Integra Motorsports is ready to get the job done and I think we are all excited about contesting the remainder of the Firestone Indy Lights season.'

Integra Motorsports, which operates under the Team Apex Racing USA banner in the Formula BMW USA Championship, comes to the Firestone Indy Lights Series with a winning heritage of talent including previous A1GP, World Series by Renault and Red Bull Junior driver Robert Wickens

'Chip (Ganassi) and his teams have a proven track record and a tremendous instinct to spot and develop young talent,' said Integra Motorsports managing director David Hunt. 'We have the ability to facilitate this process by identifying and preparing that talent for advancement in North America, and we're looking forward to developing Marc within a successful programme and working with Target Chip Ganassi Racing.'

The partnership will include technical support from Target Chip Ganassi Racing, which last weekend won the first race of the 2008 IndyCar Series season at Homestead-Miami Speedway with Team Target driver Dixon.

'We have a tremendous opportunity to partner Target Chip Ganassi Racing's resources with a young driving talent in Marc,' said Target Chip Ganassi Racing managing director Mike Hull. 'I think Integra Motorsports recognises that those resources, coupled with our history for developing young talent, will make for a very exciting opportunity for everyone involved.

'We expect big things out of this programme and are committed to Marc's development in open wheel racing.'

by Indycar

by Dallara