Marco Andretti, Alexander Rossi Swap Rides for Andretti in 2018

By Aaron Bearden, Contributing Writer

Marco Andretti and Alexander Rossi are set to switch numbers and operations ahead of the 2018 Verizon IndyCar Series season.

Andretti Autosport announced on Thursday that Andretti, 30, will move over to the Bryan Herta Autosport-affiliated No. 98 Andretti Herta Autosport Honda in 2018, continuing the a partnership between the two organizations that dates back to 2016 and includes a victory in the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500.

“I’m very much looking forward to being in the Andretti-Herta entry,” Andretti said in a release. “My goal is to bring the No. 98 another Indy 500 win along with many other victories. Working with Bryan has been refreshing – he is very committed to getting me all the tools I need to get back into victory circle. He believes in my talent and is dedicated to turn that into results.”

The announcement follows a year in which BHA owner Bryan Herta, a former winner in both CART and IndyCar, fielded Rossi while also working as a strategist for Andretti. Rossi finished seventh in the standings, with a victory at Watkins Glen International. Andretti ended the season in 12th.

“I’m thrilled to be continuing the partnership with Andretti Autosport,” Herta said.

“The relationship has worked really well both on and off the track for us and our partners. I’m looking forward to moving back onto the No. 98 timing stand with Marco and can’t wait to get the 2018 season started.”

With Andretti in the No. 98, former Formula One prospect Rossi will transition over to the No. 27. The Californian will bring sponsor NAPA Auto Parts with him, with the organization handling co-primary sponsorship duties for 10 races in 2018.

The duo will join veteran Ryan Hunter-Reay and rookie Zach Veach to complete Andretti Autosport’s full-time 2018 driver lineup. Veach replaces 2017 Indianapolis 500 champion Takuma Sato, who is moving over to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing for the upcoming season.

Announcement : I’ll be driving the #98 for Andretti Herta Autosport with Curb Agajanian in the 2018 @IndyCar season. Looking to bring the 98 another Indy 500 victory. pic.twitter.com/rerJaVf3Xa

— Marco Andretti (@MarcoAndretti) December 7, 2017