In a surprise turnaround, new CART team Rocketsports Racing has selected Alex Tagliani to be its lead driver in 2003. Team boss Paul Gentilozzi signed Tagliani despite strong rumours that Italian Max Papis would lead the team into its inaugural season.
"I've watched Alex and he races with great spirit - I appreciate that enthusiasm," Gentilozzi said, "he brings with him good, solid Champcar experience and, even more importantly, a desire to succeed."
Canadian Tagliani was dropped by the Forsythe Racing squad in favour of compatriot Paul Tracy, but Tag has bounced back to sign with one of the most hotly anticipated new teams in the CART paddock.
"I'm very excited to join Rocketsports Racing," 'Tag' said, "I was impressed the first time I met Paul, because we had talked about cars and racing aspects, not just business. Paul has joined Champcar for the right reasons and not just for parades or fun. He's put a great team in place."
The team will be sponsored by Gentilozzi's long-time Trans-Am backer Johnson Controls while Tagliani's salary will be paid for by tobacco brand Players, as part of his personal sponsorship by the company.
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