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Once more shooting itself in the foot, IndyCar took a big step back by driving away the only person who managed to inject some life into a constantly fading series.
Randy Bernard wasn't perfect, obviously, but his unique philosophy and vision of auto racing helped make the 2012 IndyCar season one of the most exciting in ages -- F1, NASCAR and others included.
When Bernard was appointed CEO of IndyCar in March 2010, he inherited a moribund program that was still suffering from the decisions of the previous administration. The ongoing crisis with the U.S. economy certainly didn't make things easier.
Even worse, IndyCar continues to have a hard time finding new sponsors due to an obsolete TV deal that was negotiated by Bernard's predecessor, Tony George.
At the onset, the former CEO of Professional Bull Riders was vocal about increasing IndyCar's visibility among general audiences and restoring its former glory. Developing a new car and a new engine, as well as hiring quality assistants such as Tony Cotman and Beaux Barfield, have helped boost credibility on the track.
More recently, Bernard announced new events on the 2013 calendar, the return of the Triple Crown, and select double-headers that would make the most of ABC's coverage.
Granted, there were some failures. The high cost of replacement parts for the DW12 has infuriated team owners, while the Lotus saga and the loss of the (expensive) China race have somewhat compromised Bernard's leadership and management skills.
None of this, however, will eclipse the big breath of fresh air that Bernard has given to Indycar over the last two years and three seasons. The unspeakable treatment by the board of directors is a real shame to say the least.
Journalists covering the series have lost a premier interlocutor, and now fans are venting their displeasure and even anger on social media. They feel cheated and betrayed. After all, Bernard had brought hope of a renaissance in American open-wheel racing.
The news will likely make many people happy at GRAND-AM and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), which are currently finalizing a merger for 2014. They will enjoy a broader spotlight and increase their chances of signing interesting deals with a top network.
As the saying goes: One man's loss is another man's gain...
Randy Bernard wasn't perfect, obviously, but his unique philosophy and vision of auto racing helped make the 2012 IndyCar season one of the most exciting in ages -- F1, NASCAR and others included.
When Bernard was appointed CEO of IndyCar in March 2010, he inherited a moribund program that was still suffering from the decisions of the previous administration. The ongoing crisis with the U.S. economy certainly didn't make things easier.
Even worse, IndyCar continues to have a hard time finding new sponsors due to an obsolete TV deal that was negotiated by Bernard's predecessor, Tony George.
At the onset, the former CEO of Professional Bull Riders was vocal about increasing IndyCar's visibility among general audiences and restoring its former glory. Developing a new car and a new engine, as well as hiring quality assistants such as Tony Cotman and Beaux Barfield, have helped boost credibility on the track.
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| Photo: IndyCar |
More recently, Bernard announced new events on the 2013 calendar, the return of the Triple Crown, and select double-headers that would make the most of ABC's coverage.
Granted, there were some failures. The high cost of replacement parts for the DW12 has infuriated team owners, while the Lotus saga and the loss of the (expensive) China race have somewhat compromised Bernard's leadership and management skills.
None of this, however, will eclipse the big breath of fresh air that Bernard has given to Indycar over the last two years and three seasons. The unspeakable treatment by the board of directors is a real shame to say the least.
Journalists covering the series have lost a premier interlocutor, and now fans are venting their displeasure and even anger on social media. They feel cheated and betrayed. After all, Bernard had brought hope of a renaissance in American open-wheel racing.
The news will likely make many people happy at GRAND-AM and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), which are currently finalizing a merger for 2014. They will enjoy a broader spotlight and increase their chances of signing interesting deals with a top network.
As the saying goes: One man's loss is another man's gain...