Edmonton open-wheel date change could play havoc with the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series schedule

Last night at 11:15, the following statement was issued jointly by the Indy Racing League and the Champ Car World Series:

“The ongoing talks between the Indy Racing League and Champ Car World Series will continue into at least Friday in regards to the unification of open-wheel racing. Any confirmation of unification will be made once an agreement is in place. There are no plans for a news conference at this time. Much progress has been made toward unifying the sport.”

A story in the Indianapolis Star is saying....

"[The IRL's Fred] Nation said there is no cause for concern even though a news conference planned for this morning at Indianapolis Motor Speedway was put on hold.
"Absolutely not," he said. "They made a heck of a lot of progress, but they're not over the hump yet..."

Regarding ownership of the new series, according to the report the discussions aren't building toward a merger. It would be better characterized as a capitulation on the part of Champ Car.

"The IRL is seeking full rights to Indy-style racing, including its history and trademarks. All future races will be held under the IndyCar Series banner, and Champ Car's owners are not permitted to operate a rival series based in the U.S..."

In terms of impacting the Canadian open-wheel race originally scheduled for July 19-20 in Edmonton, it appears that date will be on the move.

"The Edmonton race, set for July 20, requires an adjustment because that conflicts with the IRL's race in Lexington, Ohio, an event key to Honda, the league's lone engine supplier.
The IRL will offer Edmonton officials the July 27 and Aug. 3 dates. The former is the same day as the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard..."

If true, this presents a challenge for the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, which recently released its 2008 schedule, including a race at Edmonton on July 19. The possible July 27 alternative in Edmonton would work for the NCATS series, but the Aug. 3 weekend would be in direct conflict with the NASCAR Nationwide (formerly Busch Series) race weekend in Montreal.

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series race at Sun Valley Speedway, in Vernon, BC, is scheduled for July 12. This date of this race would also have to move if Edmonton changes weekends, given that it's impractical for the NCATS drivers, crews and officials to go to western Canada on non-consecutive weekends.

The NCATS schedule is here.