INDIANAPOLIS, IN (December 7, 2011)-Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing (SFHR) announced today the signing of 20-year old All-American Nashville, TN native, Josef Newgarden, to pilot the No. 67 entry for SFHR in the 2012 IZOD IndyCar ® Series season. Newgarden competed in the Firestone Indy Lights series in 2011, capturing five wins and ten podium finishes, clinching the series points championship with one race remaining in the season.

“First of all, I’d like to thank Andy, Sarah, and Wink for providing me with this opportunity,” said Newgarden. “It’s a perfect fit. SFHR and myself have a lot of the same qualities, and I’m really looking forward to working with everyone throughout the year. I’m sure we’re going to have great chemistry, and I’m excited to get 2012 rolling.”

SFHR is currently working out details to finalize Josef’s 2012 schedule, but anticipates a full season effort. Newgarden has proven his success on both ovals and street/road courses.

“Wink brought the idea of Josef to our attention and after watching him mid season forward, we knew he would be a perfect fit,” said Fisher. “Josef has a great brand and is a true champion. We very much look forward to working with him both on and off track.”

Team owner Sarah Fisher also announced today her partnership with businessman Wink Hartman, forming Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing (SFHR).

“I’m very excited to welcome Wink as a partner to SFHR,” said Fisher. “Wink has been a part of the team and a personal mentor since 2008, and in this new era of our team and the direction we’re going, we’re excited to have his leadership.”

Hartman was one of the first sponsors on board the No. 67 entry in the 2008 Indy 500 and has been a part of the team ever since.

“I’m excited about the great news for SFHR today,” said Hartman. “It shows Sarah’s continued growth in selecting Josef to be the driver for the future of the team. We look forward to a great 2012 season with Josef behind the wheel.”