Rice wants ChampCar switch

The 30-year-old American will make his championship debut in Mexico City at the weekend after signing a one-off deal to replace AJ Allmendinger at the squad.

And after driving the team's Lola car at the MS Raceway in Texas, he was quick to offer his services to boss Gerry Forsythe for 2007.

"I don't know what Gerry is thinking for next year but, after just one day with this team, I know I'd love to drive for them next year," said Rice. "I just need to do my job and the rest will take care of itself."

Rice has raced in the IRL IndyCar Series since 2002, winning the world famous Indy 500 in 2004.

His only previous time in the cockpit of a ChampCar came in late 2001, when he tested for Team Green, and so he was not sure quite what to expect as he had his run-out.

"I felt like it went well and I did everything I had to do," said Rice, who is taking over Gerry Forsythe's No. 7 car for the season finale this weekend at Mexico City.

"I was super impressed with this team and their professionalism made the transition easy."

Mexican David Martinez will also make his series debut in his home race at the weekend, in what was intended to be a three-car squad.

But with lead driver Paul Tracy's participation in doubt after he injured his shoulderblade in a golf cart accident, the squad could end up running two rookies in the season finale.