Danica Patrick says that before committing to compete in the Indianapolis 500 again she wants a car capable of winning.

Patrick, who as an IZOD IndyCar Series rookie in 2005 made headlines by becoming the first woman to lead laps in the 500 Mile Race, in her first season competing in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

"I would love to do it; I’ve said that all along," Patrick said July 26 at the Speedway. "I love the race. I feel like it was always one of my strongest races of the year in IndyCar.”

In seven races at the 2.5-mile oval with Rahal Letterman Racing and Andretti Green Racing/Andretti Autosport, she had six top-10 finishes, with a high of third in 2009. Patrick also led 10 laps in the 2011 race, in which she advanced 15 positions relative to her starting spot to finish 10th.

“Maybe it will happen, maybe it won't, but I can tell you the only way it's going to happen if it's with someone I really feel I can have a shot to go out there and win because it's unfair to the history I've had here and to my memory to do anything less than that,” Patrick added. “I wouldn't want to wreck anything I've experienced here with something to take away from that.

“So if we do it, it'll be with a shot to be able to win. On top of that, there's just a whole lot of logistical issues to iron out if that were to be the case. But, first and foremost, a good car.”

Patrick, 30, of Roscoe, Ill., said being at the Speedway is special.

“I don't care what I drive around this track, I love being here,” she said. “I just like everything about it. I like the facility, obviously, and to me the special thing about Indy is obviously I've had great experiences, but it's about the track. It doesn't matter what kind of car I come in here, I've had great experiences, memories. So that's what I like so much about it. And I love the tradition.

“The older I get, the more I realize how much history and tradition plays a role in what's important and what matters and what means the most to you.”