DirecTV to begin IRL campaign this weekend

DirecTV's deal to become quasi-presenting sponsor of the IRL is close enough to fruition, league commercial division president Terry Angstadt told the Times, that the satellite television provider will begin its marketing effort this weekend at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

The six-year deal will pay the IRL $3-million annually.

Angstadt said the agreement would not mean a name change for the series but would slightly alter the logo. The league is still pursuing title and presenting sponsors, Angstadt said. A title deal would be worth about $10-million a year.