Phoenix Racing says its new deal with former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Kurt Busch is for only for 2012, a time during which Busch hopes to rebuild his reputation following an abrupt and ugly departure after six successful years at Penske Racing.

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20111223/NASCAR/111229951#ixzz1hkoUkT8T

The 33-year-old racer was a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner (2005 and 2011).

Three other drivers, including championship contender Will Power, were hurt in the pileup. Weldon was airlifted from the track to University Medical Center; about two hours later, he was pronounced dead.

English born Dan” Wheldon was only 33 and is survived by his wife Susie, and sons Sebastian and Oliver.

“IndyCar is very sad to announce that Dan Wheldon has passed away from unsurvivable injuries,” IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family today. IndyCar, its drivers and owners, have decided to end the race.”

In his honor, drivers took part in a five-lap salute around the oval. The remainder of the race was cancelled.

The last fatality at IndyCar happened in 2006 when Paul Dana was killed after a crash in a morning warmup.