HVM Team Owner Comments on 2009 TV Schedule

It’s been nearly 24 hours since the IndyCar Series announced their 2009 television schedule that includes both a strong network and cable presence. IndyCar Series partner ABC/ESPN will again produce and televise the famed Indianapolis 500 to a worldwide audience and also air the debut of the IndyCar Series to the Streets of Toronto.

Meanwhile, new league cable partner, VERSUS, steps in to not only broadcast 13 events in 2009, but will feature at least three hours of programming on race day and a one-hour preview show the day before each race. The announcement of the schedule has HVM Team Owner Keith Wiggins feeling positive as the team continues to prepare their plans for the 2009 season.

“We’re in a time period where we are focused on building our race program to be bigger and better in all aspects for 2009," said Wiggins. “Any time you’re working four, five or even six months ahead with commercial partners, it’s good to know that a solid television broadcast schedule is in place. A package that includes ABC televising the Indianapolis 500 and a new cable partner who is excited about the product makes it easier for us to talk to current and potential partners."

HVM Racing currently plans to compete in both the IndyCar Series and the Firestone Indy Lights Series. The team is focused on competing with two entries in both series. The announcement of the television schedule with a new cable partner is just another step forward for the unification of open-wheel racing.

“I see this as nothing but a positive move forward," continued Wiggins. “I think there was a great step forward this season, but we need to keep that momentum moving in that direction. We know now that we have a strong, committed broadcast schedule that will give us more in-depth coverage than ever before. That’s great news when you’re building a winning program like we’re doing here at HVM."

HVM Racing is currently preparing for the final race of the 2008 IndyCar schedule the Nikon 300 on the Streets of Surfers Paradise. The race will be broadcast live October 25 on ESPN Classic at 10:30 p.m. (ET).