Preparations already underway
source:
irl.racing-live.com
Once the checkered flag dropped on the season last
month at Texas Motor Speedway, one would think that each team member would get
some time off before the 2005 season begins at Homestead-Miami Speedway on
Sunday, March 6th. However, that's not how Marlboro team Penske will be spending
its off-season. From the final lap of 2004 until the time the team transporters
pull into Homestead-Miami Speedway next March, the team will be working to
insure a successful campaign in 2005.
"The first month after the final race of the season is spent regrouping," said
Tim Cindric, President, Penske Racing, Inc. "That's when we deicide how Marlboro
Team Penske will be structured in 2005 in terms of personnel, sponsors and
equipment."
During that month, team personnel are given their assignments for the season
ranging from spots on one of the driver's pit crews, roles on the test team or
in other positions in Reading, PA. In addition, the 2005 budget is analyzed
line-by-line so that each dollar is allocated to either equipment, personnel,
uniforms or parts. Another objective for the fall is to finalize sponsorship
agreements between Penske Racing and its various sponsors in terms of monetary
commitment, decal placement on the car as well as uniform branding. The team
also works with its equipment manufacturers to determine their readiness for the
2005 season and discuss any changes that need to be made.