De Ferran

Indy 500 champion Gil de Ferran is retiring at the end of the season, he announced on Monday.

The 35-year-old Brazilian, who sealed an emotional victory at the Indy 500 in May, two months after a serious crash, will be replaced at Team Penske by defending Indy Racing League champion Sam Hornish Jr.

"My experience with Team Penske is, without question, the pinnacle of my career. I felt it was important to stop while I was at my best," de Ferran said in a statement released from team headquarters in Reading, Pa.

"I wanted to wait until the end of the season to announce to everyone my decision to stop driving. However, I realize it is in the team's best interest for me to do so at this time so they have the opportunity to hire the best possible driver.

"I feel they have done so with Sam."

De Ferran held off compatriot and teammate Helio Castroneves to claim his thrilling Indy 500 win on May 25. He had only returned to practice that month following a crash at the Phoenix 200 in March, when he injured his back.

His victory denied Castroneves a record third consecutive Indy 500 win.

De Ferran starred in the CART series, winning two championships in 2000 and 2001 while driving for Roger Penske's team.

He has changed his mind about continuing in the sport after renewing his contract.

"Gil's commitment to the team produced two National Championships, eight victories including our 100th win, and our 13th Indianapolis 500-mile race victory," said Penske.

"He has certainly made a place in Penske Racing history as one of our great drivers."

The 24-year-old Hornish is one of the rising stars in Indy car racing. He has won more races than any other driver in the Indy Racing League, a series which began in 1996.

The Penske team is unrivalled in the various forms of Indy car racing with 118 race wins, including 13 Indy 500 victories and 11 national championships.

De Ferran is currently second in the series, behind Castroneves. Hornish lies fifth with three races remaining.