One quick opine of mine on the dramatic rule changes for 2007. At first, one has to be somewhat surprised by the amount of changes. These are dramatic rule changes, literally changing the face of our favorite racing series. We are leaving familiarity behind and heading into a whole new direction. You can easily justify the timing of these changes, given that the series is going to feel new in 2007 with the multiple new events, teams and of course, first and foremost, the car. The time for change is now and you have to give Champ Car credit for not being afraid of change. They could have fallen back on the old safeguard, but they opted to try something bold and new. Like ‘em or hate ‘em, they will dramatically change the nature of the sport as we know it.

I’m going to tell you why, generally speaking, I like these changes as a whole. Its quite simple actually. It separates Champ Car from the IRL. It gives Champ Car its own identity in America. Right now, with the IRL adding more and more street/road courses to their schedule, it must be almost impossible for the average American to tell them apart. I’m talking about the average American, not the diehard race fans. Timed races will give Champ Car its own identity. Standing Starts will be unique to Champ Cars in America. With unification seemingly less and less likely, it’s important for Champ Car to get its own identity. These are big steps towards achieving that goal. I commend Champ Car for taking that step.

We’ll talk some more about these changes. Let me know what YOU think.