The IRL is moving from ESPN to Versus.
The Indianapolis Star reports that Versus will replace ESPN and ESPN2 as the cable partner of the IRL starting next season. Versus will carry at least 13 races in 2009, the first year of a multi-year agreement with the IRL.
The IRL is “counting on additional programming on Versus, including pre- and post-race shows, extended broadcasts and specialty shows” to make up for the loss of exposure from leaving ESPN.
ESPN is not leaving the IRL entirely. IRL races will remain on ABC through at least 2012, with the network continuing to broadcast the Indianapolis 500 as well as four other races. The five total races is down from seven this season.
