Catchfence

TORONTO, ON (July 18, 2010) – With another top 10 finish in his sights, Raphael Matos had his day spoiled when a late race collision left him in the tire barrier and in 21st place at the IZOD IndyCar Series Honda Indy Toronto.

Matos was running 10th and closing in on ninth when he was struck from behind by Alex Tagliani in turn five sending the #2 car into the tire barrier with suspension damage.

“I was racing to finish in the top 10 and collect some points, but unfortunately Alex Tagliani took me out,” Matos said. “Marco (Andretti) and Danica (Patrick) slowed down in turn 5 and Tagliani dive bombed me. It was unfortunate because the HP car was consistent and the crew was great in the pits.”

Matos started 11th and ran in the top 12 throughout the race. He gained a position on each of his two pit stops and worked his way into the top 10 with 30 laps remaining. He was inching closer to ninth when he was spun into the tires on lap 64.

“The HP de Ferran Dragon team put together a consistent car and Rafa was running a nice race,” team co-owner and race strategist Jay Penske said. “We had a top 10 car, possibly a top 5 car, but unfortunately Tagliani tried to pass in a no pass zone and he ended our day too early. It’s very disappointing.”

Matos is now 13th in the championship standings with 186 points heading into Edmonton.

- de Ferran Dragon Racing Press Release