Will IndyCar lose one of its most talented drivers?

Raphael Matos came to America with $5 in his pocket and the hope of making a career in racing. So far he has proven to be a great talent, winning everything he drives. He won the hugely competitive Champ Car Atlantic Series in 2007, and followed that up with the Firestone Indy Lights title in 2008. In between he has proven he is fast in any type of car.

Yesterday at Miller Motorsports Park he found himself in the lead after the final refuel and tire change with 28 laps remaining in the Grand-Am Rolex Series race. On the ensuing restart with some very talented drivers in tow, Matos held the lead and then assumed control, growing his gap over the field to nearly 30 seconds at the finish. In other words he buried them.

However, there have been no rumors that an IndyCar team is willing to pick up Matos next year and it may be that another great open wheel talent leaves the Indy Car paddock because too many teams still hire drivers for 1) nepotism, 2) the money they bring, or 3) what sex they are, regardless of whether they can win races, which is not a way to grow a 'professional' race car series. In baseball, football, basketball, soccer or any other professional sport, if a player cannot cut the mustard they are sent to the minors or out the door.