25 years ago, the Champ Car World Series (CART) was formed. 25 seasons of
racing. 25 years of memories. 25 years of Champions
source: Mike Sulka -
paddocktalk.com
That legacy could end today, but will never be forgotten.
The Official CART History reflects back on CART's founding principles:
1. The organization would be more responsive to competitors, sponsors,
promoters, news media and racing fans.
2. Champ Car racing would be reinforced as a major league sport and
entertainment medium.
3. The economic viability of the Champ Car racing business would be improved for
all concerned.
4. There would be greater emphasis on media visibility.
5. Better competition would be stimulated through rules stability.
Those principles could end today for Champ Car, but the principles have stood
the test of time and will ultimately live on. They are still the factors
necessary for a healthy open-wheel racing series.
The first Champ Car race was at held in Phoenix, Arizona on the one-mile oval at
Phoenix International Raceway in 1979. It was televised on NBC. It was won
by American Gordon Johncock in Pat Patrick's Penske PC6-Cosworth.
That race was a proud historical moment for the founders of the Champ Car World
Series. They will never forget it. They had accomplished so much.