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Barrichello ponders move to Indycar

ESPNF1 Staff
February 8, 2012 « Ecclestone critical of Williams' rebuilding strategy | Lack of results forced re-think - Ferrari »
Rubens Barrichello on track in the KV Racing IndyCar during a private test at the end of January © Sutton Images
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Rubens Barrichello is set to decide next week whether he will switch from Formula One to the Indycar series for 2012 following the decision by Williams not to retain him for the current season.

Barrichello recently enjoyed an Indy test with the KV team, in which his close friend Tony Kanaan is involved. "There is a lot going on, we have spoken with many people and there are things to be resolved, including the family aspect," he told radio Bandeirantes on Tuesday. "There is great anticipation and if everything goes well I think we can make the announcement of the decision early next week.

"I'm sure anyone who knows me can see in my eyes what I want. The first race is March 25 and there is no time to waste. If we want to be in a competitive way, everything has to be right and that means sponsorship, team, family … everything."

Barrichello's first F1 team boss, Eddie Jordan, has urged him to not be tempted to make the switch. "I love Rubens," he told Globo. "Our story began when he was only 19. I love his family, his parents, and I think he should retire with dignity."

And fellow Brazilian Emerson Fittipaldi, who twice won the Indianapolis 500, warned of the dangers of American oval racing. "Today, Indy is different to when I drove. The risk is higher but it is a risk that he knows he will need to take. Still, I think he can have fun doing what he likes."

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