Tyre option at Long Beach

Beginning with this weekend's showpiece event at Long Beach, every car receives a total of eight sets of Bridgestone Potenza tyres (32 in all). Of those eight sets, six will be of the standard street course specification, and the remaining two sets will consist of a softer compound offering more grip, which should produce quicker lap times and the ability to pass slower cars.

Every car in Sunday's race must use at least one of the softer sets of tyres at some point within the race, but each team may utilise that option set at its discretion. The idea is for varying race strategies to develop - some drivers on softer tyres while others are on the standard spec at the same time - to enhance the competition and entertainment value for fans. Cars on the softer tyres will have red markings on the sidewalls to allow spectators to follow what's going on.

"We're doing this for the fans," said Al Speyer, executive motorsports director for the series. "It has been historically difficult to pass on street courses. We have been working with the Bridgestone tyres and, in co-operation with Champ Car, have developed this concept we believe will lead to better overtaking opportunities."

The option tyre plan is being given a trial run this weekend at Long Beach, and its success will be reviewed with Champ Car officials for possible use at future events.