Can IndyCar Series CEO Randy Bernard sell ice to an Eskimo? Perhaps.
But, according to Terry Angstadt, president of the open-wheel series’ commercial division, the effort to attract Chevrolet and Lotus as engine suppliers to the IndyCar Series was a “true team effort.”
The Chevrolet deal was announced Oct. 12 and the Lotus deal is being announced today.
“I really get upset when all the bad things are credited to [former IndyCar CEO] Tony George, and all the good things are credited to Randy Bernard,” Angstadt said. “That’s very naïve.”
The growth in the series this off-season dates to reunification in 2008, and has a lot to do with the series’ decision to launch a new engine and chassis package in 2012, Angstadt said.
Angstadt says Bernard does get a major nod for forming the ICONIC Advisory Committee, and jumping into negotiations with Chevy, Lotus and other potential series suppliers.
“But the consummation of these deals takes a lot of effort on the part of a lot of people,” he added. “Guys like Tony Purnell, for instance, have been a huge help.”
Purnell is a businessman and former principal of the Jaguar and Red Bull Formula One teams, who became a member of the ICONIC committee this year.
Credit aside, Angstadt expects big things from the series’ two new engine makers.
“In time, we expect the new engine manufacturers to be just as active as Honda in marketing and activating for the series,” Angstadt said.
Some sports marketers wondered if the marketing and sponsorship pie generated by engine makers would grow, or stay the same and be divided among them.
“Absolutely, the plan is for marketing from that category to grow,” Angstadt said. “If there are two new engine manufacturers in 2012, we could see the marketing spend in that category triple.”
That kind of marketing muscle, sports marketers said, is what the series needs to grow television ratings and attendance. IndyCar sources said Honda spends $10 million to $15 million in marketing annually. If what Angstadt said is true, the two new engine manufacturers would put another $20 million to $30 million annually combined into billboards, TV, radio, print and Web ads as well as point-of-purchase promotions and marketing at each track where the series races.
The good news doesn’t end there for the IndyCar Series.
Angstadt said that while a deal for a new “mega activating” sponsor—potentially as big as series title sponsor, Izod—is coming together a little slower than expected, he anticipates an announcement before year’s end.
“We’re awfully close to that category exclusive announcement,” Angstadt said. “That announcement could come before Thanksgiving.”
And that’s not all. Angstadt today is headed to Brazil, where he will meet with Apex Brasil officials, and hopes to sign two new sponsors.
“We hope to sign two letters of intent,” Angstadt said. “That would make this trip a real success.”
Back to Top
IBJ Conversations
125 Comments
Add Comment
Not to detract from the good news but when is Talkin' Terry gonna get the IRL out of the VerSUs contract? I'm surprised this isn't the very FIRST order of business behind torpedoing the IRL moniker/identity.
Laying prostrate on the floor is the image all takers see the IRL now...which isn't a bad thing I suppose. BUT, the bottom line is there has to be ROI and even though $10 by Honda for 33 will be divided into thirds...I doubt the impact will be as big as suggested.
Cable TV subscribers are DUMPING cable TV too....another fork in the road. How about charging for IRL action from the web? Then you can forcefeed all the marketing from the BIG 3 directly to the consumer...err 'connections'.
For my money I believe the IZOD IndyCar Series made a deal with Versus that was well ahead of its time. Dividends are already paying off; e.g., superior coverage, ratings in target demos up, refreshing new content distribution strategies, etc.
Chief, with all due respect, this ongoing hostility act of yours is rather humorous, particularly when estimating that no one can possibly be that simultaneously ignorant and obsessed.
In any event and on behalf of the IZOD IndyCar Series, thanks for your close attention to every minute detail.
History will NEVER forget the damage the IRL's inception caused....nor will you EVER stop revisioning it here and elsewhere.
Point or counterpoint, there will always be someone to rebutt your claims. However, I am cautiously optimistic regarding all this leegUe hoopla as I still don't see how this all translates to fans in the stands and on TV.
But, your pomposity I'm sure with try to sway opinion, so have at it tiny.
With all that being said, I think IMS is doing a great job to kickstart things. I'm not even that big of a racing fan, but it makes me happy to see them trying to reinvigorate it. The City needs it.
Chief, I have rarely seen diversion and wanton stupidity combined then used as an effective debate tactic with the possible exception of Tea Party candidates trying to get elected.
Look, the handful of you still trying to sabotage the sport because you miss cart are missing the entire point. Your arrogant behavior is what led to the downfall of cart, twice, after they boycotted the institution that gave them all of their legitmacy. But now, in 2010, your quaint little 'war' is over. They surrendered. Kevin Friggin' Kalkhoven is being an IndyCar team player by facilitating the entry of Lotus to the series. Why can't you kids follow the lead of people like that? They are all on the same team now. Jimmy, Michael, Floyd, ALL of them. As an added bonus, your pal Anton is out of the picture. I am having a difficult time understanding the basis of some 'war' you still seem intent on fighting?
I would be happy to point/counterpoint with you, but you are going to have to focus, son. These nonsense outbursts from you and your like minded pals are hideously inappropriate and not suitable for adult discussion. Can you commit to cleaning up your act? If so, I will happily discuss these issues.
Anyone that could take Bull Riding to he heights it is today is "Iconic" in and of himself! He just knows how to get things done.
I, for one, am glad Randy's on board. Let's wish him well in his endeavor to restore Indycar to it's rightful place perhaps with achievements never seen before.
BerwickGuy, Randy sure knows how to shake it up, doesn't he.
For once we all will learn if the IRL/IZoD/IMS has the right stuff because it's readily apparent they are assembling all the elements. But, all the kings horses and all the kings men....well, they got a big job ahead of them
I still say, IF Randy wants to put this sport in the publics eye, IT HAS TO BE ON TV where folks can see it. VerSus just don't cut it...and with the lame duck 2011 approaching...the sport comtinues to be in grave danger. Don't lose focus in all this hoopla friends....THAT should be job one...GET THE BROADCAST PACKAGE FIXED. PAY for it out of pocket. 0.30 isn't gonna cut no matter how much activation you provide. Period.
Lotus, huh? Does Lotus even make their own engines??? or is this Toyota sneaking back into open wheel. It's a good thing either way. Anyone hear from Ford or Mercedes yet - it could be old home week again.
ANy friction is good friction. Terry needs to go...out with the old guard! New Indy needs to emerge!
Food for thought.
I will say again, you Indy minions are missing the point...NOTHING has worked to the present. Defender, you seem to have the goose with the golden eggs....that goose has been raped for 15 years, what makes you think THIS time is the one?
Well, if I was a blithering idiot, I might stupidly pull a number north of half a billion out of thin air, claim some nebulous source, then doggedly cling to it like a Biafran to a Big Mac. Fortunately, I have a brain and am unafraid to use it. What it tells me is that money spent over the past fifteen years has gotten it to 2011, where new, additional sponsorships, paid media linkages and manufacturer partnerships will keep it viable for decades to come, complete with profitability. Most startups fail. IndyCar is obviously an exception to the rule.
"I will say again, you Indy minions are missing the point...NOTHING has worked to the present."
I am having a challenging time following your convoluted 'logic.' If NOTHING has worked to the present, how in the world is the series still in business? Would it not have folded as other once popular series did, twice? As usual, you are making little sense.
"Defender, you seem to have the goose with the golden eggs....that goose has been raped for 15 years, what makes you think THIS time is the one?"
Again, I am having considerable difficulty attempting to glean something close to a point. Here, let me try. What's good for the goose is good for the gander. Unless the gander boycotts Indy and fails. Twice.
Life is great Chief. Jump in the waters warm!
1. Good news announced.
2. Disturbed cart enthusiasts that refuse to budge from 1995 become deeply chagrined.
3. Repetitive, nonsense, off-topic, incoherent slamming occurs; e.g., sub-1 12+ ratings on Versus, engine badging is bad, attendance is lousy, George family spent $750 million to keep it afloat, Tony ruined everything, etc., usually with cleverly misspelled words and atrocious grammar.
It is my believe this fringe group should seek immediate medical attention.
Tony did in fact screw everything up, since 1996. IRL has no vision, and is dead. The IZOD Car series has limited viewership on a hard to find unwatchable channel deep out in the cable universe. The Hulman George family has spent hundreds of millions keeping the IRL afloat. Fans from both sides of the split remain unimpressed with gains as of late. And, even the IRL Defender admits the IZOD Indycar Series is nothing but a niche sport seeking a narrow target of the prized demographic of males 18-34, which apparently is up 40%. They wouldn't have a clue what a Lotus was or is, so I guess it's ok.
You can keep looking down your nose at us or you can embrace us...see our points...and make common ground for the betterment of the sport. But you won't.
So the obsessed is indeed YOU who refuses to see fact for fact the problems the sport faces today. Indy, clearly, is not the answer for everything that ails the sport...otherwise we would not be having this conversation. Would we?
The one thing the IRL has not done is gone bankrupt twice while spending millions of investors money. Talk about your pyramid schemes.
KK has come back and is bringing Lotus, the least you can do is bring some track dogs.
I try to find common ground, but it's clear you don't want us...we're just the realists of AOW.
Tony has not been around for a long while. The philosophical direction of the IZOD IndyCar Series has taken a decidedly upward turn under the leadership of Randy Bernard. Tony did not force cart to boycott the place that gave them all of their legitimacy. Tony did not force cart to go out of business, twice. How could Tony possibly be simultaneously accused of being dumber than dirt AND the mastermind of cart destruction? You kids cannot have it both ways. And what does your silly little Tony prejudice have to do with the subject of Anthony Schoettle's blog about Chevy and Lotus contributing $30 million additional dollars to IndyCar coffers?
"IRL has no vision, and is dead."
Again, I might point toward current IZOD IndyCar Series news. You know, the addition of Chevy and Lotus to go along with Honda for engines, and several aero manufacurers? Newly announced sponsorships, etc? How can a series with such positive momentum be considered 'dead' unless you are a clueless cartourettes victim?
"The IZOD Car series has limited viewership on a hard to find unwatchable channel deep out in the cable universe."
You are hitting all the cartourettes bullets in this one. Versus is now available in nearly 80 million domestic homes. Nearly a third of IZOD Indy Car Series races are scheduled for an OTA network. IndyCar marketing folks are taking advantage of several new content distribution channels. The Comcast takeover of NBC/Universal will allow many new opportunities for brand proliferation. These are things adults understand, kemosabe.
"The Hulman George family has spent hundreds of millions keeping the IRL afloat."
When do I get my detailed breakout of revenue against expenses? Do you know how utterly stupid you appear when you repeat this meritless, idiotic attempt at a talking point?
"Fans from both sides of the split remain unimpressed with gains as of late."
Wrong again. A handful of bitter cart idiots stuck in 1995 are not impressed. No one cares about them. The actual lost fans to which Randy Bernard is reaching out do not share your cockamamie, whacko ideology. They are simply fans with apathy who found other amusement while cart stomped its feet and scorched the earth for more than ten years. Randy is making it safe for them to return now.
"And, even the IRL Defender admits the IZOD Indycar Series is nothing but a niche sport seeking a narrow target of the prized demographic of males 18-34, which apparently is up 40%."
Wrong again. The IZOD Indy Car Series is considered mainstream by intelligent people without axes to grind. Television ratings for 18-34 males are up 40%, but there are other demographic categories that have also shown consistent gains. Those with access to something other than 12+ summaries from zap2it understand this.
"They wouldn't have a clue what a Lotus was or is, so I guess it's ok."
Most real racing fans know what a Lotus is. They and Chevy will be contributing around $30 million dollars to the series.
"You can keep looking down your nose at us or you can embrace us...see our points...and make common ground for the betterment of the sport. But you won't."
That's right. I won't. You consistently have no point. You have cartourettes and you look foolish. The handful of you children hellbent on the destruction of the sport deserve only scorn and ridicule. You are a cancerous blight. The sooner you grow up the sooner the sport improves a little more.
"So the obsessed is indeed YOU who refuses to see fact for fact the problems the sport faces today. Indy, clearly, is not the answer for everything that ails the sport...otherwise we would not be having this conversation. Would we?"
It does not matter what conversation anyone is having. The handful of your ilk still left will continue to attempt to monopolize and 'last word' any and everything written about the IZOD IndyCar Series, and your juvenile tendencies will intensify commensurate with how good any IndyCar news is. You will likely continue to toss out nonsense talking points without any regard for topic subjects.
Here's a suggestion: Lose the cartourettes and try to make legitimate points. If you do, dialog like adults can occur. As long as you continue to behave like a child, however, that is precisely how you will be treated.
For that matter that Toyota is running a NASCAR engine that has no connection to anything they run in their cars or trucks? Or that all other NASCAR engines are based on 1960's engines?
It is all about marketing. IF a Chevy wins on Sunday, does that winning car have any connection to the cars Chevy sells on Monday? Other than the names, no.
Thy lofty one, I genuflect in your general direction. The great Indy Car series does no wrong, NEVER, ever. Oh, fair oracle of greatness, indeed enlighten us again on the fair virtues of the IRL's venture upon the stormy seas of American Open Wheel racing, circa 1996. Certainly the great prophet of Indy, ToNee George nee Nostradamus, saw something disasterous ahead. What pray tell was this vision he saw....and has said vision ever been satisfied?
Here is a helpful suggestion: Try looking forward instead of backward, like most normal people. The future looks really bright and is something we can actually do something about. Becoming a real race fan, for example.
So, while rosy on the outside, it is still rotten on the inside. What impact will Lotus and Chevy and Honda have on 2011 Centennial Era Indy 500 attendance and TV ratings? Your vibrant prognostications seem to leapfrog the inevitable.
KK needs business for Cosworth, seeing as the new F1 teams are already dumping them in favor of better engines, so he gets Group Lotus to supposedly go .1RL racing.
Thing is, Lotus is doing everything on borrowed money, with Malaysian government guarantees.
So, it's 2 Government motor companies that are expected to spend millions to prop up Penske/Ilmore, KK/Cosworth and the Indiana Racing League.
Don't be shocked if the Lotus deal falls through, though. They have so much on the table right now, it's hard to take it all seriously.
-Fake outrage implying various taxpayer dollars/governments are ultimately behind new IZOD IndyCar Series motors.
-The Lotus deal will fall through.
The better the news, the more desperate and hideously inappropriate the bad behavior of hateful little children.
On the positive side, there is no shortage of stupidity for this little cartourettes research project.
Why would any person EVER take you seriously?
I am sure KK called up King Yang di-Pertuan Agong His Royal Highness Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin and said let get cosworth some business.
As to what effect these announcements will have on the IRL in 2011, in short, a lot.
IRL is getting a ton of publicity, both racing based and more importantly main stream, and the message is the same, something interesting is happening in the IRL.
Certainly it'll be a winnah, Indy always hits homeruns.
Actually, I am merely attempting to comment on actual blog topics, as any adult would. When folks use (a)maturity and (b)lucidity in their contributions, they are treated in kind by me. Your silly little blanket analysis of my posting proves conclusively you either do not know how to read or are unable to comprehend words. Either way, you should seek some professional help.
'Why would any person EVER take you seriously?'
I do not care whether anyone does or not. I am only interested in the free exchange of dialog with other adult racing fans.
'Apparently Cotman is alerting everyone as to the evolutionary changes already in place for 2012...don't expect it to look like the hologram. Tony sez he wants sexy too but safety may dictate if it'll be another dallara uglomobile. Certainly it'll be a winnah, Indy always hits homeruns.'
They certainly hit enough to make themselves the center of the racing universe. Do you approve of the job Cotman is doing? He was long associated with cart/champcar before their unfortunate self immolation. Twice.
Ugly you say, did you see that in the mirror? Nothing, I repeat, NOTHING, could be uglier than the F1 monstrosoties.
The Indiana Racing League cars are old, slow, ugly as hell and pretty much anyone can put the pedal to the floor and keep it on track.
Just look at Milka, Danica, Sarah, Marco, etc...
-IRL cars are 'ugly.'
The only thing more vulgar than a cart apologist lodged in 1995 is the knee-jerk arrogance of overly defensive F-1 enthusiasts.
Note 1: Odd that someone who fancies the handle 'Truth' would bleat incessantly about one Hanna Montana concert (plus/minus 16K capacity at an indoor facility; plus/minus 50K capacity at an outdoor stadium) when the entire IICS season draws more than a million. Not to mention how scary it is that someone who fancies cart would also fancy Hannah Montana.
Note 2: Still no sign of anything even remotely resembling an intelligent answer o my oft-requested accounting for said half-a-billion plus loss.
Note #3: The often sub-human behavior of those afflicted with cartourettes also have a nasty habit of posting words not associated with blog thread topics, attempting to veer each one wildly off course by OCD-like repetition of fictional talking points.
Is there any portion of the concept of staying focused on the topic that continues to elude your grasp? If so, work it out. If not, let's keep it confined to Lotus and Chevy. Not other contributors.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-tmHins_Rs
You have got to realize sticking to the topic means the haters have to deal with reality. They cannot do that. So they continue to attempt to insult those who disagree with them, they lie..sorry, misrepresent the truth, and hang on to ourrageous claims that no one with real knowledge of the sport believe is true.
Their hater world is crumbling. Their predictions of iminent doom are proving as wrong as they have been over the last 15 years. The series they hate is getting stronger and they can do nothing but lie about it.
Even Chief is pulling a Robin Miller and begining to hedge his bets. I can't blame him, the writing is on the wall.
It is just too darned bad there was not an episode of Hannah Montana on a television in that bar. That would have provided real entertainment for all the manly men.
I think a long time ago, an IRL supporter commented that NASCAR was taking a fall and that the IRL would start coming back.
Seems like those predictions are coming true. much better than the hater predictions.
A race was killed, they have to rent tracks because nobody can make $$$ promoting them, still nothing definite on the supposed closer, and then all of a sudden, it was raining $$$ on the .1RL...
2 Government Motors signed up to supply engines 2 years from now, and the league also expects them to prop up the .1RL by blowing 30 million promoting the Zombie Indiana Racing League???
It used to be that manufacturers went racing to promote their goods. In the Bizarro world of the .1RL though, they are there to spend Millions to try and get someone to watch the series NOBODY WANTS TO WATCH.
BTW, here's a quote from Mike Gascoyne about Group Lotus:
"They seem to have announced that they're going to join every racing series around the world, and the only question is who's going to pay for it?" said Gascoyne.
"Because they seem to want to do every racing series that there is, and for a loss-making car company, that seems to be slightly perplexing. But if that's what they want to do, good luck to them."
Don't count the chickens before they hatch. 2 years is a long time in .1RL land...
Here's the deal, kids:
-The IZOD Indy Car Series (it is not called 'the IRL' or hater cutesie '.1RL' any more) is not, I repeat NOT, going out of business any time soon.
-GM paid back all its loans to the government early. The government is slowly handing back control oif that company. GM turned a large profit last quarter.
-Real racing fans are happy to have the participation of two new manufacturers to complement Honda.
...and yet there are some who foolishly believe an 'end' is near.
Get help.
Talk about recognition?? Ask a person on the street who the quarterback was for Oklahoma last year or if there is a three time championship ring wearing quarterback from Oklahoma.
Come on, get real. Just because you want to be right doesn't mean you and all the others on this post going on and on and on and on, and have I said it enough... on and on HAVE to keep saying it!
It's tiresome to read about the schoolyard quarrels you and the others continue to have. Lets mooove on, hear that..and we're moving along and talk about something else!
What you may ask? How about upcoming drivers (Conner Daly)and where they will go. Or improving grassroot affiliations with small tracks like Anderson, Mount Lawn or Winchester. How about a discussion about the new constuction coming in front of the Speedway..who should move there, hotels, museums or team shops?
There, lets move on, agree to disagree and stop being a Jerry Springer episode and embarrassing ourselves.
Have a nice day and enjoy whatever flips your skirt;)
For GM to pay back the government, GM would have to completely repay the $6.71 billion loan with interest, purchase the government's preferred shares (as well as keeping up dividend payments) about 45 billion dollars worth. And as an aside, the money they used to "pay it back in full" was from TARP money they borrowed! This is worse than "robbing Peter to pay Paul", this is robbing "Paul to pay Paul"! And then to beat your chest that you paid it back?
Really...
-The IRL had POTENTIAL
-The 50G impact lights had POTENTIAL
-Dr. Jack miller had POTENTIAL
-The VerSUus TV contract had POTENTIAL
-The ABC/ESPN contract had POTENTIAL
-The MERGER had POTENTIAL
-Chevy, Oldsmobile, Toyota, Nissan, Honda and STOCK BLOCK had POTENTIAL in the IRL
-The Dallara IRL chassis had POTENTIAL
The $30 MILLION has POTENTIAL...if indeed it is infused or used in the manner Defender will change the topic to. Counting chickens and taking stock just 4 weeks after the season ending farce at Homestead. No attendance, no TV ratings...a joke on track as they held the race up for 20 minutes while Will Power tried to repair his car after HE put it into the wall.
That's some series right there. Lotus doesn't have any money to spend! Prolly just KK finding a way to badge the Cossie.
I believe Defender is right. There were two parts to the Government bail out. An outright loan and purchase of company stock. The loan has been paid back and I believe all the interest as well. The goverment is in the process of divesting itself of the stock. The IPO went so well they increased the price and amount of stock sold. I have not seen the final numbers, but the Goverment no longer owns a controlling interest in GM with a holding of around 30%, down from 60%.
In less than a year, the government should be out of the car business with GM and may even make a little profit.
You have potential as well. You show signs of accepting the inevitable that that the IRL will last and succeed. But occasionally you revert back to your hater ways. Let the past go, you are not going to get your personal apology. The IRL is gaining momentum.
"-The IRL had POTENTIAL"
Then they retired the moniker to mostly to appease some of the more militant cart-centric idiots still fighting a war.
The IZOD IndyCar Series still has a ton of potential and is realizing much of it with new sponsor and manufacturer gains.
"-Dr. Jack miller had POTENTIAL"
No, not really. But he did bring quality sponsorship and recognition early on to the sport.
"-The VerSUus TV contract had POTENTIAL"
Still does. It is a deal far ahead of its time.
"-The ABC/ESPN contract had POTENTIAL"
Too bad they have actively tried killing the brand lately.
"-The MERGER had POTENTIAL"
You mean the bailout? You're right. It still does.
"-Chevy, Oldsmobile, Toyota, Nissan, Honda and STOCK BLOCK had POTENTIAL in the IRL"
So have many other evolutionary iterations over the years.
"-The Dallara IRL chassis had POTENTIAL"
Still does. So much so they are building a factory in Speedway.
"The $30 MILLION has POTENTIAL...if indeed it is infused or used in the manner Defender will change the topic to. Counting chickens and taking stock just 4 weeks after the season ending farce at Homestead."
The new manufacturers are forward looking visionaries. Not bitter, obsessed backward looking second guessers.
Here is where the cartourettes kicks back in:
"No attendance, no TV ratings...a joke on track as they held the race up for 20 minutes while Will Power tried to repair his car after HE put it into the wall.
That's some series right there. Lotus doesn't have any money to spend! Prolly just KK finding a way to badge the Cossie"
It would be nice if you found a way to even slightly grow up.
I knew the haters would take the good news hard. In Chiefs case, he has reverted to his childhood.....or has he ever matured out of it?
Perhaps they will doesn't equate to the fact that they have not done so.
Let's keep our facts straight and not revert to Chief/Burl/Truth HALF TRUTHS!
You keep your sport and I'll keep mine.
Great that you know the numbers, just stop going on and on and on about something you don't like. I get it, you don't like it.
I don't like peas...SO I DON"T EAT THEM!
You guys continue to quibble among yourselves, your beginning to resemble one another! Chief, Berwick, Defender, Indyman. Come on move on. Maybe if you choose to continue this line of endless arguing, you can choose another line of topics.
I double dog dare all of you!
And, the IRL is coming up roses with a POTENTIAL influx of $30 million. Even Talkin Terry said it's possible. Not fact, just brag at this point. Sorry to wet your corn flakes, but it's right there in Anthonyu's article.
But I'll be accused of being a downer and child.
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE63K56920100421
Chief,
I agree, you do not utter half truths, because I do not think there is that much truth in what you say.
-They want Carmen Jorda to succeed because she is 'hot.' They do not really like Danica. They DO like Simona deSilvestro, but believe Pippa Mann is a little too masculine looking for them. They want to know what's up with Ana Beatriz' eye. Sarah Fisher was not on their radar.
-They did hear about Chevy coming back and Lotus joining and they are excited about turbos. Evidently the $30 million that is expected is going to be well spent.
-They asked me whether I saw Vitor's pass from a few years ago from third to first while threading the Ed Carpenter/Scott Dixon needle.
-Versus is a big reason they have started following. They are huge NHL fans. They were bringing up clips to show me on their mobile devices.
To say the IZOD IndyCar Series is not attracting new fans is to admit your own denial and/or stupidity.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/04/22/grassley-slams-gm-administration-loans-repaid-bailout-money/
http://bailoutsleuth.com/news/2010/10/general-motors-will-repurchase-21/
The destruction of AOWR will all be worth it then!!!!!
We'll have three spec engines instead of one, an Italian spec car built in theonlyplacethatmatters with cool snap-ons for faux differentiation, a 14 race schedule that nobody watches (especially the few remaining ovals), and the CART guys are in control.
The rectangle race will draw 2/3 attendance and a 2.8 rating, but that's OK! The irl won.
"is gonna be the irl's breakout year!!!"
(Note the continued use of the now-shelved 'IRL' acronym) Actually, what is now known as the IZOD (fully sponsored) IndyCar Series has been turning wheels for fifteen seasons, and shows no signs of not, despite the repetitive, OCD like epithet hurling of youthful cart enthusiasts every single year.
"The destruction of AOWR will all be worth it then!!!!!"
-Case notes: As the result of cart killing itself, twice, their simplistic assumption is that cart = all of open wheel. That is arrogant in addition to being incorrect.
"We'll have three spec engines instead of one, an Italian spec car built in theonlyplacethatmatters with cool snap-ons for faux differentiation,"
Case notes: One spec manufacturer is BAD. Now, apparently, so are THREE non-spec manufacturers. It is apparent nothing will please cartourettes victims.
"a 14 race schedule that nobody watches (especially the few remaining ovals), and the CART guys are in control."
Actually, there are 16 and likely 17, and more venues are targeted. Attendance topped a million and ratings in target demographic areas were up 40%. I was also not aware Randy Bernard, Brian Barnhart and Terry Angstadt were 'cart guys.' Kid, listen...there is no more war. You can stop trying to fight it now
"The rectangle race will draw 2/3 attendance and a 2.8 rating,"
Case notes: Denigrate the institution that gave the entire sport its legitimacy. Actually, the 100th anniversary will likely sell out, and the 12+ ratings will likely exceed 2.8. Ratings in target demos will likely rise again too.
"but that's OK! The irl won."
Again, 'IRL' is retired. The IZOD IndyCar Series is, most definitely, large and in charge.
Case Note 2: I can't get Versus even though it is available in 80 million US homes.
You need to learn the difference between truth and opinion. Opinion is what you spout on these threads, truth is what you dodge. Pretty easy to see the difference.
IRL is on ABC/ESPN...TRUTH...
Lowest Indy 500 tv ratings since live broadcasting began in 1986. When? YES, year 2010. FACT. What happened?
VersUS has been delivering 0.30's for the rest of the IRL season. FACT. Yet, IRL captitalizes on the PR of 40% increase in 18-35 males. UhhhhHuh.
FACT: ISC tracks were dumped because NO ONE really cared about the IRL in ISC markets. FACT. And, it wasn't apparent until the NASCAR "Tix Extortion Packs" were removed. Just like in 1996, the IRL was foisted upon markets that didn't want them or could support them.
ALL FACTS. You see, your rebuttal is that ISC tracks didn't promote in the manner IRL expected....but we know better than that. After several years ina market which was seeded with freebies by Marlboro and ISC season tickets deals....the seeds never GREW. That's a FACT you all fail to accept.
More half-truths? Naaah, let's get back on topic about a POTENTIAL influx of $30 million in 2012 and the rise of street races in the IRL for cheap quick cash.
Wow, a INDY legend sez "throwing a blanket over 15 cars" at tracks was BAD for racing. Just like the IRL professed all these years.
I know my conclusions will be different for others to stomach, but, why is it so hard for the Indy bootlickers to realise it stinks, stunk, stank? And at least admit it? Really, real racing fans are still laughing at Indy and the IRL. And will into 2011 too.
Probably Boby Unser has cartourettes and is stuck in the past, huh?
i give thanks to the opportunity to keep this thing going and making people euphoric and other people absolutely miserable....Love it.
One fact, the premise of Anthony's original blog post, is that both Chevy and Lotus are joining the IZOD IndyCar Series in 2012, and their involvement will bring up to $30 million additional dollars to the series.
"IRL is on verSus. TRUTH..."
Absolutely factual. A deal that is ahead of its time. Youthful mostly male consumers strive for an overload of data delivered 24/7 on a variety of communications devices. A paid television deal is but a small portion of an overall media strategy designed to enhance viewership in new and modern ways. Those stuck in 1995 do not get this, as their simplistic, repetitive, invalid talking points continuously reinforce.
"IRL is on ABC/ESPN...TRUTH..."
A mainstream family o' channels available in most American households. I have issues with the partnership dedication of the ESPN/ABC, but a paid deal to run a third of the season races on an OTA network might seem to placate one of the primary shrill bleats of the quaint little hater club. No?
"Lowest Indy 500 tv ratings since live broadcasting began in 1986. When? YES, year 2010. FACT. What happened?"
Essentially, the number of channels, content distribution methods and entertainment choices increased exponentially over the past ten years or so. Using a 1995 framework to apply to a 2010 model is well beyond stupid, event for youthful cart enthusiasts.
In dealing with simplistic 12+ summaries gleaned from zap2it and other basic sites, that is correct. What this kid and his little friends do not have is access to all the numbers. If they did, they would notice consistently impressive gains in targeted demographic areas. Gains that help facilitate new sponsor involvement that results in millions of new dollars.
"VersUS has been delivering 0.30's for the rest of the IRL season. FACT."
Again, refer to my observations about simplistic cherry picking of 12+ numbers from summaries on web sites. The actual numbers (available for those licensed and qualified to evaluate them) would seem to indicate a less pessimistic conclusion.
:Yet, IRL captitalizes on the PR of 40% increase in 18-35 males. UhhhhHuh."
Actually, similar gains have been seen in other demographic areas, but those of us with the capacity to actually use our brains have the ability to connect advertising dollars to the efficient delivery of demographic targets. Those actually spending the money consistently report ROI that exceeds their expectations. That bodes well for the future. I realize that type of truth just drives the haters crazy, but reality can do that occasionally.
"FACT: ISC tracks were dumped because NO ONE really cared about the IRL in ISC markets."
Actually, the ISC tracks were dumped because ISC management did not promote the IZOD IndyCar Series with the quantity or quality other events received. Relationships between the IICS and ISC were supposed to be partnerships. Partnerships are supposed to go both ways. Clearly, they were not. Perhaps the bold move made by Randy Bernard will send an unambiguous message to such folks.
"FACT. And, it wasn't apparent until the NASCAR "Tix Extortion Packs" were removed. Just like in 1996, the IRL was foisted upon markets that didn't want them or could support them."
Even ISC tracks disagree with such sour sentiment, usually broad brushed by simpletons who understood neither the way the packages worked while in force, or after they went away. The actual primary issue was/is promotion.
"ALL FACTS. You see, your rebuttal is that ISC tracks didn't promote in the manner IRL expected....but we know better than that. After several years ina market which was seeded with freebies by Marlboro and ISC season tickets deals....the seeds never GREW. That's a FACT you all fail to accept."
Hmmm. That's odd. The people with whom I discussed these issues were all associated with ISC tracks and the IICS, usually while attending such events. The thoughts of these people differ wildly from the crudely expressed, often fictional opinions of disenfranchised cart enthusiasts still intent on fighting some type of war.
"More half-truths? Naaah, let's get back on topic about a POTENTIAL influx of $30 million in 2012 and the rise of street races in the IRL for cheap quick cash."
Actually, Randy Bernard has done a good job of keeping a balance, and ovals may well play a more prominent role. The problems of temporary circuit/street races that plagued the old cart and champcar series before they killed themselves, twice, are becoming apparent with glitches in Edomonton and Baltimore.
Truth, are you taking steps to deal with your cartourettes issues? This intervention from real racing fans here is designed to help you.
It's not slagging the IRL, it's telling the TRUTH about the sport from eyes outside of the INDY gang. nice to see.
-They want Danica Patrick to succeed in NASCAR because she is 'hot.' They do not really know any other single driver in the IRL anyhow. They DO like Jimmy Johnson, but believe Jamie McMurry is a little too effeminate looking for them. They want to know what's up with Dale Earnhardt Jr.s lacy of talent. Sarah Fisher or any other dirver in the IRL or the IRL itself was not on their radar.
-They did hear about Chevy paying back the government, and Facebook joining and they are excited about boobs. Evidently the $30 I spent on lunch for them was less than expected.
-They asked me whether I saw the Chargers game last night.
-Versus is a big reason they have never heard of the IRL. They are huge NFL fans instead. They were drawing X's and O's on napkins and showing me clips of babes on their mobile devices.
To say the IRL Series is not attracting new fans is to admit you know the truth.
My friend at the radio station told me they DIDN'T give the tix away because there was NO INTEREST. NO ONE WANTED THEM EVEN THOUGH THEY PROMOTED THEM FREE.
NONE of the 18 to 35 year old MALES I know, through work, friends or children of friends and family EVER speak of the IRL or INDY. EVER.
You forgot to mention such simple things like Bobby saying "That's the best thing that's happened to Indy car racing in a long time," Bobby says. "I was so happy when I heard it. It's so good. I can't believe how good it is. As we all know, there's been a lot of negativity about Indy car racing. It's obviously there, but this takes some of that negativity out. There's still a lot of things that are wrong and need fixing, but this is a big step in the right direction. It's going to help a bunch."
now to correct your paraphrase, Bobby disliked the spec cars and engines, but neither he or TS said it stunk. And he got the NASCAR part all wrong. They have been spec for decades. Last real "stock" car was early 80's. When they went away from the sheet metal to the fake bodies, is when they became spec. That was at the start of their rise to fame. What the American people have said no to is the rampant over marketing of NASCAR. Too many races, too many shows, too much of it all.
Indy went spec because they had to, to survive. cart tried to go innovative and spent themselves into bankruptcy.
Where Bobby is stuck in the past is innovation 50 years ago was far cheaper than it is today. 50 years ago a mechanic in a garage could play around with a car and make it quick. Today it takes teams of engineers, wind tunnels, and on and on to make a fast car. F1 is the only true innovative series, and even they are hitting financial issues.
So, stop using that as an excuse for the creation and existance of the IRL. I agree Unser is happy for the change....and gives great suggestions on how to make it better. But that would mean Brian Barnhart would have to be fired (which is long overdue).
The sooner they get rid of the old Hulman guard at the speedway, the sooner this sport will return to prominence. So, stop using the NASCAR excuse for your existence Iman, it make you look weak...just like the IRL.
It was about NASCAR. Unser said that IRL was spec which is not what the fans want. He said that NASCAR lost popularity when they went spec. I countered that fans do not mind spec, because NASCAR went spec in the 80's and their popularity went through the roof. As I stated, what is hurting NASCAR is over exposure. Too much of a good thing. I know long time NASCAR fans who are getting worn out by it and tired of Jimmie Johnson winning every year.
So it is about NASCAR.
People keep saying spec is not popular, spec is the most popular series in America.
That said, I want IRL to get back to innovation, but at a reasonable cost. High cost will doom it like it did cart. Multiple engine makers is a good start and multiple companies building aero packages will be even better. Lower cost chassis with any number of exterior changes will be the best of both worlds.
You guys have been predicting and begging for Barnharts firing for years. I do not think that is going to happen. If Belaskus wants to make rule changes, he will. Does not matter what Barnhart wants. I am sure Bobby will talk to IMS admin and discuss his issues. Have always been a fan since he had it out with that Furanner who tried to take the race from him.
Shouldn't you be skiing in the alps with your 18 to 35 year old children who hang on every word out of IMS and Versus writers such as Taser Martin? You and Penske gonna have another meeting on the high slopes?
I agreed with him that the IRL needs to be innovative, but within reason. Spec is not what caused the IRL issues. What caused that was a bad break up from cart, carts failure to die peacefully and the lingering hatred from the haters among other issues. But as you have said, that is all in the past.
I touched on all parts of Unsers convo, not just twisting the parts to say what you wanted them to as you did with both Unser and Stewart.
Maybe, Hulman's sell to CHina interests? Raise much speculation!
Minor league and all you IRL guys who read this in the sport as well as these cornball fans know it.
â??For brands that are much more international in terms of their focus, they will absolutely become increasingly interested as the league and/or its drivers get more profile, whether itâ??s Alex in Canada or Ho-Pin in China or the Brazilians,â?? Atkins says. â??The profile for Indy in Brazil is probably higher than any other country outside of the United States and Canada because they have a vested interest in the drivers.
â??Iâ??ve been going to China for 20 years and understand how brands can develop their awareness there, and itâ??s a certainty that Ho-Pin can be an extremely efficient way to build brand awareness for a brand that wants to be known in China. Very efficient versus the traditional ways to build a brand because itâ??s a vast market and itâ??s very complex. The population dynamics are beyond anything that exists anywhere else.â??
It's ok....because you IRL hypocrites are going to have to swallow the next grate piece of news: The Mercosur Grand Prix.
IRL vision is a failure...kicked off ovals, reaching for foreign shores for $$$ with their grate American brand of racing that generates the lowest TV ratings in history at Indy, AND is on a remote backwoods 4th tier cable network station that generates 0.30 tv ratings.
Run out of American track to soil, eh Iman? FAILURE.....DEATHBLOW 2011 is upon you.
So which is it, you earlier stated that the IRL will be around for many years to come, now you are spouting off about some Deathblow 2011. Is that a new WWE smackdown you watch? What exactly does "Run out of American track to soil, eh Iman?" mean? What is a track to soil? A farming thing?
Xenophobia as exhibited by Tony George and the IMS minions during the creation phase of the IRL is what could be considered racist, racing-wise. And, when you couple the sorry state the IRL left the AOW landscape in today AND IMS' decision to have mostly foreigners and expansion to foreign soil for street races...well, you have what is known as HYPOCRISY. All of the IMS/IRL crowd is made of this ilk. It's good Chinese racers are OK and multiple foreign races are ok too, with a foreign fuel suppliers etc etc.
The IRL has been 'run' out of MANY American markets because NO ONE WANTED OR LIKED THE PRODUCT. Now, you need to crawl to the evil foreign tracks with foreign ride buyers and engine leases and spec chassis.
Iman, just admit it, the IRL is, was and will always be A FAILURE.
LOL.
So what rules did TG put in place that were racist? Did he say no blacks? No Asians? The worst you say is that he was xenophobic. But even that is not correct. if anything, it was more protectionism.
I have long stated I do not like street races and would like more Americans in the series. But between the IRL and cart, the IRL had the best chance for me to see what I like. Cart had abandoned both ovals and Americans.
Tell me a story like Sarah Fisher could have happened in Cart. Of course not. We saw what happened to Jeff Gordon. No money, no way to race.
Pelosi is taking over for Bernard...
But, hey this is Indycar and I am the King - They love me in Indy, they love me in Vegas, they love me in Miwaukee - Hell they love me in CA - the Terminator - err - Governor even calling me on my cell begging me to race there - Arnold, with the tax rates??? I don't think so.
But, hey this is Indycar and I am the King - They love me in Indy, they love me in Vegas, they love me in Miwaukee - Hell they love me in CA - the Terminator - err - Governor even calling me on my cell begging me to race there - Arnold, with the tax rates??? I don't think so.
Heck, there's probably more too I ain't even mentioned. YES, IRL is a failure. PERIOD. The sucked so bad in these markets over the past 16 years they have nothing to show for it. What happened?
Point being, the stodgy crowd refuses to accept the point that the 3 wide side by side "throw a blanket" over 'em fanbase has vanished. Why? Because the IRL has been nothing but a contrived waste of space, not even worthy of a race fan's interest. Admit it, the IRL sucks. 2011 is upon you....
No, I shall sit back and watch how this all plays out, keeping the IMS and everyone else HONEST. I guess the war in on in Rio...this should be good for IRL tourism in 2011. The gangs are fighting back too....maybe Talkin Terry needs to make a deal with them gangs, you know, they are in the IRL's wheel-house!
IF I EVER SAY I LIKE THE IRL (or izzycar series) then, THEN I could be considered a hypocrite. Until then, not...
On the planet from which I originate, we refer to such behavior 'hypocrisy.'
As a dyed in the wool Hulmanite, you, of all people accepting the CART way of life for the IRL (which sold it's own soul for CART yen) is the pinnacle of AOW hypocrisy. You are that.
The tact you and IRL use will NEVER work with me or fans like me. NEVER. I suggest you do more harm than good for the ol' IRL.
http://www.indycar.com/news/show/55-izod-indycar-series/40613-building-on-the-familiarity-of-indycar/
You're welcome.
Even Dale Coyne won a race in the good old IRL....hahhahahahaha! 2011 is gonna be a hOOt6Q!
Any objective adult might suggest one thing: Grow up. 2011 will be here in less than a month.
Randy took a big step forward today slamming the IRL for not having the best drivers in the series. Seriously, that will go a LONG way to satisfy the true fans of the sport as Randy essentially admits the IRL stinks. Great move Randy, that's almost an apology!
Again, KUDOS to Randy for getting a dirty job done (and kicking to the curb the IRL refuse)!
Juan Caceres, Fabrizio Del Monte, Fullvio Ballabio, Ross Bentley, Brian Bonner, Geoff Boss, Joel Camathias, Guido Dacco, Michael Greenfield, Paul Jasper, Dennis Vitolo, Jeff Wood, Charles Nearburg, Harry Sauce, Patrick LeMarie and Jean-Pierre Frey.