The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

(AP) -- The Associated Press has learned Danica Patrick still could run the Indianapolis 500 even if she makes a full-time move to NASCAR.

Two people familiar with Patrick's 2012 plans say she is in the final stages of a deal to run a full-time Nationwide Series schedule with JR Motorsports and limited Sprint Cup Series races with the team owned by Tony Stewart.

The people spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because the deal won't be finished until she secures a release from Andretti Autosport.

One of the people says the talks also include her continuing to run the Indianapolis 500.

JR Motorsports co-owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. said last weekend he wants Patrick to run a full Nationwide schedule with his team.

Stewart has previously said he'd be interested in fielding a Cup car for the IndyCar star.

(Copyright ©2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)