Teams get invite to Indianapolis 500

According to a report in the The Indianapolis Star, rival series Indy Racing League has invited Champ Car teams to attend the race meeting.

In the proposed CART schedule for 2000, there are no events planned between May 13 and June 4 - which would allow teams to take part in the popular race.

Indianapolis 500 qualifying takes place on May 21 with the race on May 28.

IRL executive director Leo Mehl is said to be expecting a dozen Champ Car drivers to enter next year's race.

He said, 'If they give an indication they're interested, we'll certainly invite them.

'We sent invitations in 1996 and 1997, but we decided to save stamps the last two years.

'I'm sure we'll probably have 10-12 (CART) cars at the Speedway.'

CART bosses Roger Penske and Derrick Walker have publicly stated they will enter, while several other team owners have expressed an interest.

Champ Car teams competing in the 500 will have to do so with cars meeting IRL engine specifications.

CART's appearance at the Indianapolis 500 was in doubt after unification talks with the IRL broke down recently. The track is owned by IRL boss Tony George.