Quote:
Originally posted by racer69
Why doesn't Cheever have the budget, has Red Bull cutback their involvement?
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Cheever's budget is actually somewhat higher because of the funding GM is putting into "Menard Cheever Technologies" or MCT program led by ex-Renault F1 cheif engineer Bernard Dudot.
But the costs have almost doubled - part of that a one time cost for new equipment. Cheever estimates to run the same 2+ car program he ran last year would cost him $14 M, since he has to buy engines, compared to last year's $7 M. The MCT deal probably dropped his outlay a good $2-3 M, so there is budget for 1 1/2 entries. Also Buddy Rice should prove considerably cheaper than Tomas Scheckter.
I think if you add it up you'll see the #52 car at every race, the #51 at half the races or more, and the #53 at Indy and possibly another race or two when Eddie is Racing himself.