By alley - Feb 12, 2016, 5:51 PM ET

INDYCAR: Herta open to second Indy 500 entry

Bryan Herta says that he is hoping to run a second car for this year's 100th running of the Indy 500, although his immediate focus is on finalizing his plans for the primary No.98 entry.

Herta has been working through the winter to lock down a deal to continue into 2016 with Gabby Chaves in the No.98, however his team has also been linked to a number of collaborative efforts for a second entry at Indianapolis.

One of those potential collaborators, Will Marotti, issued a statement on Friday announcing his plans to enter a team at Indy in partnership with BHA, but while Herta said that he and Marotti have spoken, the situation remains fluid.

"Running a second car at the 500 is a goal for us and we've had discussions with several parties about this, including Will Marotti," Herta told RACER. "We're currently focused 100 percent on the 98 car and getting that sorted for this year."

Late last year, Marotti told RACER that his plans to become the first pastor to run an Indy 500 entry had

progressed to the point of his visiting Dallara to select a chassis

. His most recent release emphasizes that he is still working to secure funding.