P1racenews AI automatic summary:
IROC brand rights purchased, new owners plan to revive invitational series
Renowned NASCAR crew chief Evernham and former Cup Series team co-owner Kauffman have formed a joint venture company called IROC Holdings and announced the acquisition of the IROC brand. Their goal is to revive the historic brand, which was active from 1973 to 2006 and featured top racers from various disciplines competing in equal equipment. IROC was initially created by Les Richter, Roger Penske, and Mike Phelps as an all-star motorsports event where drivers raced in identically prepared stock cars. The series faced financial difficulties in 2007 and went on hiatus before being permanently discontinued in 2008. The final champion was Tony Stewart in 2006, while Mark Martin holds the record for the most titles and individual race wins. Evernham, a three-time NASCAR Cup champion, and Kauffman, an investor in several racing ventures, including Chip Ganassi Racing’s NASCAR operation, aim to bring back the excitement of IROC.
