Fernandez jumps from Champ Car series to IRL

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2004

INDIANAPOLIS, United States (AFP) — Owner-driver Adrian Fernandez defected from one open-wheel racing circuit to the other, leaving the Champ Car World Series five weeks before its season opener to join the Indy Racing League.

Fernandez admitted he faces a daunting task since the IRL season began last month and continues March 21 in Phoenix, where the 38-year-old Mexican has not driven since 1995.

"Obviously, this is a big move for us, particularly at this late stage," Fernandez said in a statement. "We have reviewed a lot of things the past few days and had to take a hard look at what we know at this point in time to determine what is best for our sponsors and the future of Fernandez Racing."

Fernandez's team, Super Aguri Fernandez Racing, already fielded...