IndyCar officials have unveiled the new circuit layout for the Edmonton race on July 24th. Slightly longer than the old circuit, at 2.25 miles and with 13 corners, an emphasis on circuit design has been put on to encourage more over-taking.
Tony Cotman, president of the design consultancy firm charged with the redesign of the circuit had this to say:
“The other (1.96-mile, 14-turn) course one was good and fast initially but it was too hard to pass on. One of the big things we needed to focus on with this course was how to make the show better, and I think we've achieved that. There were restrictions relating to the airport but I think we can create a much better actual racetrack for racing on and obviously that's what people come to see. It will be better.”
The series also announced that the 2012 race at Motegi will be its last at the Japanese venue. Since hosting the race in 2003, Motegi is the circuit where Danica Patrick got her maiden victory in the series.
IndyCar officials are believed to want to focus on the tail end of the season and ensure that high viewing figures are achieved.
“As INDYCAR and the IZOD IndyCar Series continue to evaluate their long-term plans, we must look to build the sport and its viewership. We believe it is important that the final few events on our schedule give us the opportunity to be broadcast live during times that maximize our viewing audience as we build up to the championship. We will continue to meet with promoters domestically and internationally that want to pursue an IZOD IndyCar Series event.” said Terry Angstadt, president of the commercial division of INDYCAR.
