Antinucci named as third Sam Schmidt Motorsports driver
"This is the kind of opportunity I've been waiting for," Antinucci said. "I'm very excited about learning oval racing as well. I think Sam and his team run a top-notch outfit."
Driving for his uncle, 1998 Indianapolis 500 winner Eddie Cheever, last season, Antinucci made nine starts in the Indy Pro Series, all at non-oval venues. Antinucci placed in the top five in his last four races, including two wins and a second-place finish.
"Richard was someone we always kept an eye on at the road courses last year when he drove for his uncle, and we're really confident in his potential for a great year in 2008," said team owner Sam Schmidt. "We're excited to see what he can do in one of our cars this season."
Antinucci said joining Sam Schmidt Motorsports is another solid step before accomplishing his ultimate career goals in racing.
"This isn't just a feeder series," he said. "It's a developmental series for the top flight of the IndyCar Series, which is where I want to be. To see guys like Alex (Lloyd) and Jay (Howard) go forward in the last two years is another great incentive to be with this team.
"On top of that, to work with Sam's engineering staff, to get to work with such a professional team, it's contagious. It's very motivating."