Jimmy Vasser, the reigning PPG Cup champion, paced a three-driver IndyCar contingent with a first-team selection on the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association's 1996 All-America Auto Racing Team.

Vasser (Target Reynard Honda), who earned four victories and poles during the 1996 PPG Indy Car World Series season for Target/Chip Ganassi Racing, was one of two open-wheel selections on the 13-driver first team. It was Vasser's second appearance on the All-America team, having earned honorable mention as an at-large choice in 1991. Vasser will be honored along with the other first-team members Jan. 4 at the AARWBA banquet at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and is in contention for the Jerry Titus Award, which is given to the driver of the year.

Michael Andretti of Newman/Haas Racing and 1996 Rookie of the Year Alex Zanardi of Target/Chip Ganassi Racing swept the open-wheel slots on the second team. Andretti (Kmart/Texaco/Havoline Lola Ford) had a series-high five victories this past season en route to finishing runnerup in the PPG Cup points race. The selection marked the 10th time he has appeared on the All-America squad and third time he was chosen to the second team. Zanardi (Target Reynard Honda) earned his selection with one of the more dominating rookie campaigns in PPG Cup history. He recorded three victories and series highs in poles (6) and laps led (610) to secure a third-place showing in the PPG Cup championship.

Also making the first team was Toyota Atlantic champion Patrick Carpentier, who will make his debut in PPG Cup competition in 1997 with Bettenhausen Motorsports, and PPG-Firestone Indy Lights champion David Empringham. Carpentier and Empringham were both at-large choices on the first team.

Vasser, Carpentier and Empringham were joined on the first team by Buddy Lazier (open wheel); Terry Labonte and Jeff Gordon (stock car); Tom Kendall and Dorsey Schroeder (road racing); John Force and Kenny Bernstein (drag racing); Ron Hornaday and Mark Kinser (short track); and Evan Evans (at large).

Source: IndyCar News Service