Barrichello confirms his departure to take on new challenge in Brazil

The first rumors of Rubens Barrichello leaving the IZOD IndyCar Series were in late November even though at the end of October, his former team KV Racing Technology had signed Simona De Silvestro as Tony Kanaan’s teammate.

At the time, the former Formula One pilot was in talks with other IndyCar teams, plus rumors were floating that Barrichello might return to F1.

While others were tossing back and forth which of the two open-wheel series Barrichello would contest in 2013, he was actually having a blast racing in his native land. He was quoted as saying that he is "torn" between staying in IndyCar next year or returning to his native Brazil to contest the premier stock car series full-time.

Rubens Barrichello, KV Racing Technology Chevrolet

Photo by: Eric Gilbert

On December 12th, it was a sure bet that the Brazilian would take on the challenge of victories and podiums in Brazil's Stock Car V8 series. Yet the 40 year old racer had not officially confirmed. Now he has.

"After my 20-plus years representing Brazil racing all over the world, it is time to come home," said Barrichello. "It will be amazing to race in my home country again, while allowing me to be closer to family. I have much enthusiasm for what this perfect fit will bring."

Barrichello’s desire has never changed; he enjoys the being in the cockpit of a racing machine as he pushes it to the limit. His new ride in his homeland will be with the Medley Full Time Sports team in a Peugeot.