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IndyCar: A lot of unhappiness in the paddock

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Khatir Soltani
The IZOD IndyCar Series has announced which teams would be awarded the last two Leader’s Circle franchises.

For Ed Crapenter and Jay Penske, who got picked, it was exciting news but the series’ decision left some unhappy people in the paddock.

Both Ed Carpenter Racing and Dragon Racing will receive more than 1.7 millions from the IndyCar Series; money to be used toward their racing operations for the upcoming season.

For the other team’s owners that submitted their demands some weeks ago; Bobby Rahal, Chip Ganassi, Bryan Herta, Eric Bachelart and Michael Shank had a lot to say about the outcome.

"I’m extremely disappointed and angry; it’s a travesty,’’ said a visibly angry Herta.

“We’ve got the only national brand as a primary sponsor and I was always told the Indy 500 was the most important race in the world. But obviously it wasn’t enough to get us into the 20 most important teams.’’

Chip Ganassi, on his part, found it strange that a new team and a part-time team got the money from the series.

As for Bobby Rahal he said: “I’m disappointed and I don’t agree because I’m still not sure what the criteria were to make the decision.’’

The Leader’s Circle was cut from 22 to 20 cars for this season. In an effort to try and make sure every team had a chance to earn some extra money,


Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada