IndyCar Series teams to test at Barber
The Open Test will mark the series' first visit to the 2.38-mile, 16-turn road course, which plays host annually to the Grand Am Rolex Sports Car Series and the AMA Superbike Championship.
The IndyCar Series will use the test as an opportunity for teams and drivers to have additional post-season track time as well as allow league technical officials to evaluate potential road-course modifications to cars for 2008.
"It's always exciting when we can bring our sport to a new market through off-season testing, especially one like Birmingham, which has a rich and storied history in motorsports," said Brian Barnhart, president of the competition and operations for the Indy Racing League, the sanctioning body of the IndyCar Series. "The test at Barber Motorsports Park will allow our teams to conduct a post-season Open Test earlier than in recent years while giving our drivers valuable seat time. The series plans to use this test as a way to research and evaluate potential road course applications to our cars for next season, including enhanced steering and paddleshifters." A participant list for the Open Test will be released at a later date.
"Hosting an Open Test session for the IndyCar Series at Barber Motorsports Park is truly exciting," said Brett Collins, vice-president of ZOOM Motorsports, the exclusive promoter and management team for the Barber Motorsports Park. "Of the many road racing facilities available to the IndyCar Series, we appreciate them choosing Barber to help meet their objectives. We also look forward to seeing America's premier open-wheel series run at one of the world's most beautiful motorsports parks."