Motorsports Forum: Tony George Talks Open-Wheel Racing

George Discusses IRL At Motorsports Marketing Forum

Q: What defines Indy Car Racing and IRL? What sets it apart?

George: What we do is a delicate balance between sports, entertainment, technology --we have to have a good balance. We define ourselves by speed, technology, innovation, and diversity and we offer a unique platform. We truly believe we are cutting edge. 

Q: If you could ask for one thing out of  Versus, what would help grow the sport the most?

George: A commitment to growing their network and the opportunities they bring: raw, competitive, real -- consistent with what we’re looking for in a broadcast partner. ... We’re looking for distribution of our content and looking at forms of new media. The next 10 years will be a journey and we’re taking the first steps now.

Q: Any regrets over the last 12 years of disputes?

George: We try to look forward. For the most part, everyone’s focused on the future. ... Because of the economy, everyone is trying to do the right thing and work together to be successful. We have to focus on going forward. You can always sit back and recount some memories. I don’t regret anything.

Q: Who is your biggest competitor: NASCAR? F1?

George: All and everybody. Anything that’s competing for people’s discretionary dollars -- all forms of entertainment. In motorsports, NASCAR is the dominant presence in this country and F1 globally. We kind of compete with both but try not to. We want to work together with everyone.

Q: How many races will there be on the 2009 schedule?

George: Sixteen to 20 is a comfortable number for what we do. There will be opportunities for us to do more international outreach. ... Drivers want to drive every week. Assuming the operating budgets and sponsorships are there, we could do 20-22 races a year.

Q: Is IRL profitable as a stand-alone business?

George: Not yet.

Q: In 2013?

George: It has to be or there won’t be a 2013. We expect a return on that investment.

Q: What story will you be monitoring in 2009?

George: The economy. That will be the big story in sports business.

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