After that, he's a free agent again.

Speaking about his 2012 plans earlier this week, Wheldon didn't rule out the possibility of driving for a team associated with an engine manufacturer other than Honda, a company he has been loyal to since 2003.

"The most important thing for me right now is to be racing next year," he said. "This year has worked out very well for me, but I can't afford to sit out another year.

"I have a phenomenal relationship with Honda; they've been fantastic with me, but I've got to be in a race car. It's important."

Sam Schmidt's team (Honda) is considered the best bet to land Wheldon in a pairing with sports car ace Simon Pagenaud, who already has signed. But Michael Andretti would like to have Wheldon back with Andretti Autosport as a Chevrolet driver.

Wheldon might have other suitors, but those appear to be the top ones, with Ganassi Racing committed to four cars and Team Penske good with at least two drivers -- Will Power and Helio Castroneves -- and trying to orchestrate a deal to keep Ryan Briscoe.

"The loyalty I have to (Honda) means a lot, so whatever decision I make will be a very thought-out one," Wheldon said. Indy Star