Moreno could land ride

Roberto Moreno tells AutoRacing1.com that "I would not have agreed to be the test driver for the new Panoz DP01 if it would have precluded me from landing a Champ Car ride in 2007. I would like to drive again and think I can still get the job done."

Moreno is a seasoned veteran and could be an asset to a rookie team like Gelles Racing should they start a Champ Car team like originally announced. Moreno is the only driver with DP01 experience, which would help a team who hired him. However, like with any seat in Champ Car, money, or lack thereof, is always the issue. The series and the teams hope that the new ABC/ESPN TV deal will help somewhat with landing new sponsor deals, unfortunately since Will Wilson left, Champ Car is without a marketing manager who might otherwise capitalize on the new TV deal.

This is of particular concern this year as teams really need to nail down their driver and sponsor lineup for 2007 by the end of December/early January to take advantage of the precious few preseason tests planned – three in total, one each in January, February and March. Miss one and you miss 1/3 of your allotted test days.