For the "first time" since the Indy car split in '96,
"there have been several movements recently that can only be
viewed as positive," according to Robin Miller of the
INDIANAPOLIS STAR-NEWS. Last month, IRL Exec Dir Leo Mehl
"asked his owners, collectively, how they felt about
reconciling with CART," and at the Brickyard 400, Mario
Andretti and Al Unser Jr. talked with IMS President Tony
George "to pitch peace." Miller: "Three years into its
existence, the IRL is seriously hurting for owners, sponsors
and fans. ... After three years without the [Indy] 500, some
CART teams are facing contract negotiations with sponsors
that want to be back at the Speedway -- not St. Louis -- on
Memorial Day weekend." IRL team Owner Fred Treadway: "My
concept is that we come together for marketing efforts.
Have 31 premier races with no schedule conflicts. ... Have
an American and National League like baseball and we come
together for the World Series every May." George had no
comment, but IMS VP/Corporate Communications Fred Nation,
said, "Yes, Tony has been listening" (STAR-NEWS, 8/12).
