Filed under: IRL, Indianapolis 500
Speaking to racing journalists and industry insiders Tuesday in Indianapolis, INDYCAR CEO Randy Barnard revealed big changes for the series ranging from a new name for the sanctioning body -- INDYCAR -- to double-file restarts in oval races, to lowering the age for visitors in the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway garage area.
In his first formal "state of the sport'' address since taking over as CEO a year ago, Barnard (above) spoke about the responsibility and commitment to listen to open-wheel fans as he tries to reinvigorate the once-thriving genre. And that means, according to Barnard, a new name "to move the sport forward.''
One of the most visible changes announced Tuesday will be double-file restarts beginning with the May 29 Indianapolis 500, where, for the first time in the track's 102-year history, children nine years of age and older will be allowed in the garage on race day. The engine committee also revealed it will go with a smaller 2.2-liter engine for the new 2012 car, instead of the 2.4-liter originally approved for the cars. Honda, Chevrolet and Lotus have all committed to supplying engines.
"We're trying to increase the excitement and drama around the events," said President of Competition Brian Barnhart. "Much of it is a response to fans' expectations."
Earlier Tuesday, INDYCAR announced the opening of an office outside Los Angeles with the intent to integrate a Hollywood-feel within the series -- bringing the entertainment industry into the fold to help promote the sport.
"This will be a one-stop shop to pursue opportunities and make deals across multiple business lines and entertainment outlets,'' Barnard said.
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