CHAMPCAR/CART: Series statement on Bobby Rahal departure

Statement on The Departure of Bobby Rahal From The Bridgestone Presents The Champ Car World Series Powered By Ford

INDIANAPOLIS (March 18, 2004) --The following is a statement regarding the departure of Bobby Rahal and Team Rahal from the Bridgestone Presents The Champ Car World Series Powered by Ford. The statement should be attributed to Champ Car President Dick Eidswick.

"We were surprised to hear of Bobby's decision to leave the Champ Car World Series at this time. His association and involvement with Champ Car have been considerable. Bobby grew up as a driver in our series and eventually served as the Chief Executive Officer, in addition to his role as a team owner.

"He has, however, reaffirmed his commitment to campaign his two-car Toyota Atlantic effort as well as an entry in our new Formula BMW series so we can expect him to join us on Champ Car weekends.

"Champ Car has worked diligently during the transition period in preparation for the 2004 season, in essence accomplishing six months of work in six weeks. We understand the complexity of the purchase caused some delays in planning for the teams. But the recent release of our 2004 race schedule and television package has allowed numerous teams, drivers, and sponsors to move forward with final negotiations. We fully anticipate a series of positive team and driver announcements within the next several days.

"We believe we have and are acting in the best interests of everyone who has been a part of Champ Car history. We remain committed to bringing a full field to the season opener in Long Beach and we're confident our teams and fans will be rewarded with a competitive and exciting racing season."

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