Éric Bachelart, the owner of Conquest Racing, has confirmed that he will enter two cars in 2008 with Frenchman Franck Perera in one car and a yet to be named driver in the second car as he makes the transition from Champ Car to the IRL. "The first few races won't be easy, but we gladly accept the challenge," said Bachelart. "Thankfully we will not be in complete unknown territory having competed in the IRL in 2002." PKV Racing co-owner Kevin Kalkhoven was evasive about bringing his team over but his partner Jimmy Vasser sounded like he was gearing up for a one-car entry, which could be bad news for Alex Tagliani. Forsythe/Pettit is set to field at least one entry for Canadian Paul Tracy as well as Derrick Walker who will have a one-car entry, likely for Will Power. IRL teams have their first pre-season test scheduled this week in Miami, but no Champ Car teams are expected to show up, at least to take part in the on-track activities. IRL says it has scheduled two separate tests for the former Champ Car teams for late March.
Bachelart confirms his move to IRL