Quote:
Originally posted by FishFan
The series is already on one leg and the IRL keeps gaining popularity. I don't like Tony George any more than the next guy, but the IRL has gained more in the past couple of years than CART. It's only a matter of time, now, although this purchase may save them a few more years.
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I have to disagree. The IRL and CART pretty much have the same network TV ratings (sans the Indy 500). CART's attendance is sooo much greater than the EARL's it's not even funny. Both series race at Fontana over the next month or so, so that'll be a good comparison.
CART's purchase might not be the end-all to the problems. However, they a fan-base that is loyal and actually gets out to the races. The new owners plan on tying in concerts to bring even more people out. In Miami in a few weeks, they have Kid Rock and Elton John preforming. It may not be the solution, but it's a step in the right direction.....
Back to the EARL though, If anything they're losing their fan-base....
The light (orange-yellowish) line shows the Super Bowls ratings, while the dark line shows the ratings of the Indy 500.
Take note of the decline in 1996, and how they've never recovered from CART breaking off. Also take a look at how the ratings how been on a downward tread, so their really no gaining any popularity, rather losing it.