Indy 500 Team Owners: Key Players Behind Racing Success in 2025
The Indianapolis 500 stands as one of motorsport’s greatest spectacles. Behind every car that roars around the Brickyard is a team owner with deep pockets and even deeper passion.
Roger Penske reigns supreme as the most successful owner in Indy 500 history. His team has claimed an impressive 20 victories and 18 poles at the legendary race. He also owns the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the entire IndyCar Series.
The paddock features a diverse collection of owners. Racing legends who transitioned to team management include Sam Schmidt and Jimmy Vasser, while businessmen and entrepreneurs seeking glory at the Brickyard include names like Michael Shank and Justin Marks.
Marks recently announced plans to field Helio Castroneves in a future Indy 500 entry through his PROJECT91 program.
While some owners have come and gone, others have built dynasties that span decades. Beyond Penske’s dominance, historic team owners like JC Agajanian and Louis Meyer have each claimed multiple victories, cementing their places in Indianapolis lore.
The relationship between owners and drivers often determines success. The right combination of leadership, engineering talent, and cockpit skill creates the magic needed to drink the victory milk.
History of Team Ownership in Indy Racing
Contents
- 1 History of Team Ownership in Indy Racing
- 2 Major Indy 500 Team Owners
- 3 Impact of Team Owners on IndyCar Series
- 4 Business and Economics of Indy 500 Teams
- 5 Racing and Operations Management
- 6 Prominent Drivers and Their Legacy
- 7 Regulation and Oversight in IndyCar
- 8 IndyCar’s Influence Beyond the Track
- 9 Relationship with Other Racing Series
- 10 The Future of IndyCar Team Ownership
The Indianapolis 500 has been shaped by visionary team owners who transformed the race from its early days to the modern era. Their influence extends beyond the track, with many becoming legends in American motorsport.
Evolution of the Indy 500
The story of team ownership at the Indy 500 begins with the track’s founders. Carl Fisher, James Allison, Frank Wheeler, and Arthur Newby built the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1909 and organized the first 500-mile race in 1911. Their vision created what would become “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
The most significant shift came in 1945 when businessman Tony Hulman purchased the deteriorating track for $750,000. Hulman, known for his family’s Clabber Girl baking powder empire, revitalized the facility and race after World War II.
Through the decades, team structures evolved from wealthy enthusiasts fielding cars to sophisticated racing organizations with multiple entries and corporate sponsorships. The biggest transformation came in the late 1960s when teams began operating as year-round professional organizations.
In 2019, Roger Penske purchased both the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar Series, marking a new chapter in Indy history.
Key Figures in Team Ownership
No one has dominated Indy ownership like Roger Penske. “The Captain” has amassed an incredible 20 total wins at the Indianapolis 500 since his first victory in 1972. His methodical, business-like approach revolutionized team operations in American open-wheel racing.
Several other owners have left indelible marks on the race:
| Team Owner | Indy 500 Wins | Notable Years |
|---|---|---|
| Roger Penske | 20 | 1972-2023 |
| Lou Moore | 5 | 1938-1949 |
| Chip Ganassi | 5 | 2000-2022 |
| Michael Andretti | 3 (as owner) | 2005-2017 |
| A.J. Foyt | 3 | 1967-1999 |
Chip Ganassi emerged as Penske’s chief rival in the 1990s, building a multi-car powerhouse. Meanwhile, Michael Andretti transformed from driver to owner, establishing Andretti Autosport as a consistent frontrunner despite his own Indy 500 driving frustrations.
Bobby Rahal, the 1986 winner as a driver, found success as co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, continuing the tradition of former drivers becoming successful team principals.
Major Indy 500 Team Owners
The Indianapolis 500 has been shaped by powerful team owners who have built racing dynasties through decades of competition. These racing magnates have combined business acumen with racing passion to dominate America’s most famous race.
Roger Penske and Penske Entertainment Corp
The undisputed king of the Brickyard is Roger Penske, whose teams have claimed an astonishing 20 Indy 500 victories—a record that towers over his competitors. The Captain, as he’s known in racing circles, began his ownership journey in the 1960s and hasn’t looked back.
In 2019, Penske made the ultimate power move by purchasing the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the entire IndyCar Series through Penske Entertainment Corporation, becoming both competitor and series owner in one stroke.
His operation runs with military precision. Team Penske’s 18 pole positions at the 500 further cement their dominance. Their most recent victory came in 2019 with Simon Pagenaud, adding to wins with legendary drivers like Rick Mears, Helio Castroneves, and Al Unser.
Penske’s Indy 500 Dominance
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Wins | 20 |
| Poles | 18 |
| First Win | 1972 (Mark Donohue) |
| Most Recent Win | 2019 (Simon Pagenaud) |
Chip Ganassi Racing
Chip Ganassi emerged as a racing powerhouse in the 1990s and hasn’t slowed down since. His team has secured 5 Indianapolis 500 victories with an impressive roster of drivers including Juan Pablo Montoya, Dario Franchitti, and Scott Dixon.
Ganassi’s approach blends shrewd business decisions with an uncanny ability to spot driving talent. His multi-series operation spans IndyCar, NASCAR, and sports car racing—a racing empire built on versatility and excellence.
The team’s first Indy win came in 2000 with Montoya, who dominated in spectacular fashion. Ganassi’s most recent triumph came in 2012 with Franchitti, though Dixon remains a perennial threat to add another Baby Borg trophy to the collection.
What sets Ganassi apart is his competitive fire. Despite being one of the elder statesmen of IndyCar ownership, he remains as hands-on and passionate as ever, often seen in the pit box making strategic calls during races.
Andretti Global
Michael Andretti stepped out of his father Mario’s shadow to build one of IndyCar’s most formidable teams. Founded in 2003 as Andretti Green Racing, the organization rebranded to Andretti Autosport and now operates as Andretti Global, reflecting its international racing ambitions.
Despite the Andretti family’s notorious “curse” at Indianapolis, Michael’s team has found success where he couldn’t as a driver. The team has claimed five Indy 500 victories with Dan Wheldon, Dario Franchitti, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Alexander Rossi, and Takuma Sato.
Andretti’s operation is known for fielding multiple competitive cars each May. In recent years, they’ve typically entered 5-6 cars in the 500, creating a formidable presence on the grid.
Beyond IndyCar, Andretti has expanded into Formula E, Extreme E, and Australian Supercars. His long-documented desire to enter Formula 1 showcases the ambition that drives his racing empire.
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing combines the racing expertise of 1986 Indy 500 winner Bobby Rahal with the business acumen of late-night legend David Letterman and businessman Mike Lanigan. This partnership has produced two Indianapolis 500 victories.
Their first win came in 2004 with Buddy Rice during a rain-shortened race. The team waited 16 years for their second victory, which came in 2020 when Takuma Sato claimed his second Indy 500 win.
Bobby Rahal brings driver insight to team ownership, while Letterman—an Indianapolis native—provides the team with mainstream visibility and his genuine passion for racing. Their operation has expanded to a three-car effort in recent years.
The team is also known for giving Graham Rahal, Bobby’s son, a competitive ride while avoiding the perception of nepotism through consistent results. Their engineering prowess has allowed them to compete against larger teams despite having fewer resources.
Ed Carpenter Racing
Ed Carpenter stands as a unique figure in IndyCar—a driver-owner who specializes in oval racing, particularly at Indianapolis. His team, founded in 2012, represents one of the few remaining truly independent operations in the series.
Carpenter himself has claimed three pole positions for the Indianapolis 500 (2013, 2014, and 2018), showcasing his remarkable speed at the Brickyard. Though victory has eluded him as a driver, his team came agonizingly close in 2022 when Carpenter’s driver Patricio O’Ward was in contention until the final laps.
The Indianapolis native runs his operation with Midwestern sensibility—efficient, focused, and without unnecessary flash. ECR typically expands to a three-car effort for the 500, with Carpenter himself often driving one entry.
What makes ECR remarkable is their ability to punch above their weight despite limited resources compared to IndyCar’s powerhouse teams. Their oval program, particularly at Indianapolis, remains respected throughout the paddock.
AJ Foyt Racing
AJ Foyt Racing carries the legacy of arguably the greatest driver in American motorsport history. Four-time Indy 500 winner A.J. Foyt transitioned from driving to team ownership, maintaining his fierce competitive spirit.
The team’s only Indianapolis 500 victory as an ownership entity came in 1999 with Kenny Brack behind the wheel. Recent years have been challenging, with the team struggling to recapture their former glory despite various driver
Impact of Team Owners on IndyCar Series
Team owners serve as the backbone of the IndyCar Series, wielding tremendous influence over the sport’s direction, technical development, and business model. Their decisions shape everything from driver selection to technology implementation at iconic venues like Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Contributions to the Sport’s Growth
Team owners have transformed IndyCar from a regional spectacle into a global motorsport powerhouse. Many invest millions of dollars annually to field competitive entries, creating jobs and driving economic impact throughout the racing industry.
The recent establishment of a charter system for team owners marks a watershed moment for the series. This framework provides unprecedented financial stability, with owners of 10 teams accepting charters for 25 entries in North America’s premier open-wheel racing series.
Major ownership changes continue to reshape the landscape. McLaren recently took 100% ownership of its IndyCar team, buying out partners Sam Schmidt and Ric Peterson—a significant consolidation of resources and commitment to the series.
Team owners also serve as the sport’s most vocal advocates, negotiating with sponsors, manufacturers, and venues to expand IndyCar’s footprint.
Innovation and Competitive Edge
The technical innovations championed by IndyCar team owners have revolutionized motorsports. Their push for safety improvements, performance enhancements, and sustainability initiatives often filters down to production vehicles.
Team owners make crucial decisions about chassis development, engine partnerships, and aerodynamic packages. Many currently question the direction and costs of new racecars, highlighting their role as guardians of the sport’s technical evolution and financial viability.
The divide between team owners and series leadership over structural changes is evident. One proposal for a charter-like system reportedly involved asking teams to pay $1 million to “buy into a temporary system,” revealing the complex power dynamics at play.
Comparison of Major IndyCar Team Owners (2024-2025)
| Team Owner | Years in IndyCar | Championships | Indy 500 Wins | Technical Innovations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roger Penske | 55+ | 19 | 19 | Telemetry systems, carbon fiber components |
| Chip Ganassi | 30+ | 15 | 6 | Simulator technology, data analytics |
| Michael Andretti | 20+ | 4 | 3 | Hybrid testing, aerodynamic development |
| Sam Schmidt/Arrow McLaren | 20+ | 0 | 1 | Accessibility controls, carbon neutrality |
Business and Economics of Indy 500 Teams
Running an IndyCar team requires deep pockets and savvy business acumen. The financial models that keep these racing operations afloat combine traditional sponsorship with innovative revenue streams in a high-stakes environment.
Sponsorship and Financial Models
The lifeblood of any IndyCar team flows from corporate partnerships. Primary sponsors typically invest between $1-5 million annually for premier placement on cars during the Indy 500, while associate sponsors contribute smaller amounts for less prominent branding.
Team owners face staggering costs. A complete IndyCar chassis runs about $350,000, but team owners question the rising expenses as the sport weighs changes to its racecars. The total annual budget for a competitive single-car team exceeds $7 million.
Most teams operate at a loss. Roger Penske’s organization stands as the exception, with its vertical integration of motorsports, track ownership, and series control.
Teams have begun implementing ambitious marketing plans to increase revenue. These initiatives aim to attract more sponsors and fans.
Typical IndyCar Team Annual Expenses:
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Car and Equipment | $1.5-2 million |
| Personnel | $2-3 million |
| Travel/Logistics | $1-1.5 million |
| R&D | $1-2 million |
Team Valuation and Revenue Streams
IndyCar team valuations remain modest compared to other sports franchises. A mid-tier team might be valued at $15-25 million, while top operations like Penske Racing command significantly higher figures.
Prize money represents just a fraction of team income. The economic impact of the Indy 500 extends beyond race day earnings, creating various revenue opportunities for savvy owners.
Hospitality packages deliver substantial revenue. Teams sell exclusive experiences to sponsors and VIPs, charging premium rates for garage access and driver interaction during the Month of May.
Merchandise and licensing create year-round income. The most popular teams can generate six-figure sums annually through apparel and collectibles.
Behind the shadowy payouts of racing series lies a complex economic structure. Teams receive portions of TV rights, though these pale compared to Formula 1’s distribution model.
The economic dynamics of the Indy 500 mirror modern business principles. Winning teams receive more camera time, generating greater exposure for sponsors and creating a virtuous cycle of success.
Racing and Operations Management
Running a successful Indy 500 team requires expertise across multiple domains. Team owners must balance technical innovation, personnel decisions, and race day strategies to achieve victory at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Race Strategy and Team Dynamics
Team owners in the Indy 500 know that race strategy can make or break their chances at drinking the victory milk. The most successful owners like Roger Penske build organizations with clear command structures and communication protocols.
During the race, split-second decisions about pit stops, fuel strategy, and caution flags often determine the winner. Josef Newgarden‘s 2023 victory demonstrated how proper timing of pit stops during yellow flags can lead to victory lane.
Team owners typically employ dedicated strategists who constantly analyze weather conditions, tire wear, and fuel consumption. These specialists communicate directly with drivers throughout the 500-mile contest.
The most effective teams create an environment where engineers, mechanics, and drivers work in harmony. This cohesive approach is why Team Penske has captured 20 Indy 500 wins over the decades.
Driver Selection and Training
Finding the right driver lineup represents perhaps the most crucial decision for Indy 500 team owners. Owners typically seek a combination of raw speed, experience, race craft, and technical feedback abilities.
Top IndyCar team owners like Bobby Rahal, who recently named Jay Frye as team president, invest millions in driver development programs. These programs identify talent early and nurture them through the racing ladder.
Many teams use sophisticated simulators to train drivers on Indianapolis-specific challenges, like managing turbulent air in traffic and executing perfect pit entries.
The driver selection process has evolved significantly. Team owners now analyze detailed telemetry data comparing driver inputs, consistency through varying conditions, and ability to conserve fuel while maintaining competitive pace.
Drivers like Pato O’Ward represent the new generation that owners covet – technically savvy racers who understand engineering principles and can provide precise feedback to improve car performance.
Technical Developments and Regulations
Successful Indy 500 team owners must navigate the complex technical regulations while finding creative advantages. The current IndyCar chassis platform requires owners to focus innovation in specific areas like damper programs and aerodynamic optimization.
Teams with deep engineering resources, like those behind Will Power and Scott McLaughlin, gain advantages through data analysis and simulation tools. These technologies allow them to predict how cars will behave across Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s varying conditions.
| Team Owner | Notable Technical Innovations | Recent Winners |
|---|---|---|
| Roger Penske | Advanced damper programs, Custom pit equipment | Josef Newgarden, Will Power |
| Chip Ganassi | Fuel efficiency systems, Simulator technology | Scott Dixon, Alex Palou |
| Michael Andretti | Aerodynamic optimization, Hybrid preparation | Takuma Sato, Alexander Rossi |
Prominent Drivers and Their Legacy
The Indianapolis 500 has seen many legendary drivers whose impact extends beyond the track. These individuals have shaped the race’s history through their performance and relationships with team owners.
Successful IndyCar Drivers
Josef Newgarden stands out as one of the most accomplished modern IndyCar drivers, claiming the 2023 Indy 500 victory for Team Penske. His triumph marked a significant milestone after years of coming close.
Will Power, Newgarden’s teammate, has built an impressive legacy with his 2018 Indy 500 win and consistent championship-contending performances. His relationship with Roger Penske has become one of the most successful driver-owner partnerships in recent history.
Scott McLaughlin completed Team Penske’s “power trio” by transitioning from Australian Supercars to IndyCar with remarkable success. His rapid adaptation to oval racing has impressed many in the paddock.
Pato O’Ward has emerged as a fan favorite while driving for Arrow McLaren. The young Mexican driver has shown incredible speed at Indianapolis, nearly claiming victory multiple times.
| Driver | Team Owner | Indy 500 Wins | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josef Newgarden | Roger Penske | 1 (2023) | 2-time IndyCar champion |
| Will Power | Roger Penske | 1 (2018) | Most poles in IndyCar history |
| Scott McLaughlin | Roger Penske | 0 | Successful transition from Supercars |
| Pato O’Ward | Zak Brown | 0 | Multiple Indy 500 top-5 finishes |
| Conor Daly | Various | 0 | Fan favorite with multiple teams |
Driver-Owner Relationships
The dynamic between drivers and owners at Indianapolis often defines careers. Team Penske has mastered the art of cultivating long-term relationships with drivers like Power and Newgarden. This provides stability that translates to on-track success.
Conor Daly represents a different path, having driven for multiple team owners throughout his career. His perseverance despite changing teams shows the resilience needed in modern IndyCar racing.
The family participation aspect of the Indy 500 has created unique driver-owner dynamics. Some families maintain both roles across generations.
Driver input has increasingly shaped team development. Owners like Chip Ganassi and Michael Andretti actively seek drivers who can provide technical feedback beyond raw speed. This collaborative approach has become essential for success at the Brickyard.
Success at Indianapolis often hinges on trust between drivers and owners. This is particularly true during critical strategy decisions in the race’s final stages. The most successful partnerships demonstrate complete faith in these pressure-cooker moments.
Regulation and Oversight in IndyCar
The NTT IndyCar Series operates under a complex regulatory framework. This governs everything from car specifications to race procedures.
These regulations ensure competitive balance while maintaining the safety standards that protect drivers in this high-speed motorsport.
Safety Standards and Protocols
IndyCar’s safety regulations have evolved dramatically over the decades. They often respond to serious incidents on track. The modern IndyCar features the Advanced Frontal Protection device, the Aeroscreen, and energy-absorbing barriers. These represent the cutting edge of motorsports safety technology.
Every car undergoes rigorous technical inspection before hitting the track. Teams must comply with detailed specifications for chassis construction, aerodynamic components, and safety systems.
Safety regulations extend beyond the vehicle itself. Tracks must meet specific standards for barriers, catch fencing, and medical facilities. The AMR Safety Team—a specialized unit of first responders—stands ready at all events.
Driver equipment regulations mandate fire-resistant suits, impact-absorbing helmets, and HANS devices. These requirements are non-negotiable and strictly enforced.
Penalties and Compliance
IndyCar officials wield significant power to enforce regulations through a structured penalty system. Violations range from technical infractions to on-track behavior issues.
Common IndyCar Penalties:
- Drive-through penalties
- Time or position penalties
- Monetary fines
- Points deductions
- Suspensions
Recent events highlighted the seriousness of compliance when Team Penske suspended senior leadership ahead of the Indianapolis 500. This unprecedented action demonstrated how seriously teams take regulatory compliance.
Unlike Formula 1’s more complex penalty point system, IndyCar officials generally handle each incident individually. Race Control reviews incidents in real-time. Stewards make judgment calls based on established precedent.
The INDY NXT rulebook establishes that all members are bound by these regulations. They can be amended as needed to address emerging issues in the sport.
IndyCar’s Influence Beyond the Track
The influence of IndyCar racing and its team owners extends far beyond the asphalt of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Their impact reaches into American culture and communities through various initiatives and partnerships.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
IndyCar has firmly embedded itself in American sports culture, largely thanks to the efforts of prominent team owners. Roger Penske, who owns the Indianapolis Motor Speedway itself, has transformed the race experience.
The Indianapolis 500 isn’t just a race—it’s a cultural institution that draws celebrities, politicians, and over 300,000 fans annually. Team owners have capitalized on this by creating extensive hospitality experiences that cater to sponsors and VIPs.
Several team owners have received prestigious recognition for their contributions to motorsport. This includes the Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded to Roger Penske in 2019.
The crossover appeal is evident as team owners like Justin Marks bring attention from other racing series. Marks recently announced that Helio Castroneves will drive the PROJECT91 entry.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
IndyCar team owners routinely leverage their prominence for community benefit. Many have established foundations that address education, healthcare, and economic development in their communities.
The most successful car owner in Indianapolis 500 history, Roger Penske, has invested millions in revitalizing the Indianapolis speedway area and creating jobs.
Team owners coordinate annual charity events during race weekends, raising significant funds for local causes. These efforts typically generate:
| Team Owner | Annual Charitable Contributions | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Penske Racing | $5M+ | Education, Veterans |
| Chip Ganassi Racing | $2.5M+ | Healthcare, Youth Development |
| Andretti Autosport | $3M+ | Environmental Causes, STEM |
Even smaller team owners contribute substantially through volunteer initiatives and community programs. This shows that in IndyCar, competition on track often translates to cooperation off it.
Relationship with Other Racing Series
Team owners in the Indy 500 often have connections to various racing series beyond IndyCar. These relationships have shaped the competitive landscape and created interesting crossovers between the different disciplines of motorsport.
Comparison with NASCAR and Formula 1
IndyCar team ownership differs significantly from NASCAR and F1 in structure and financial models. NASCAR team owners typically operate with higher budgets and more corporate backing, while F1 ownership requires massive financial investment.
IndyCar sits somewhere in between. Team owners like Roger Penske have successfully bridged these worlds, operating top teams across multiple series. Penske’s unique position as both IndyCar series owner and Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner creates an interesting dynamic not seen in other racing disciplines.
The relationship between IndyCar and NASCAR has evolved from rivalry to mutual respect. NASCAR personnel openly discuss and praise the Indy 500, showing a collegial relationship between America’s two premier racing series.
| Series | Avg. Team Budget | Typical Team Size | Corporate Integration |
|---|---|---|---|
| IndyCar | $10-15 million | 15-25 staff | Medium |
| NASCAR | $15-30 million | 60-100 staff | High |
| F1 | $120-400 million | 300-1,000 staff | Very High |
Crossover Drivers and Teams
The modern era has seen increased crossover between racing disciplines, with team owners supporting this mobility. Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion, will compete in the 2024 Indy 500 with McLaren Racing, backed by his NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick.
This crossover phenomenon isn’t new. Team owners like Chip Ganassi and Michael Andretti have fielded entries in multiple series including IndyCar, IMSA, and WEC. These multi-series operations give owners broader exposure and diverse revenue streams.
A group of IndyCar team owners recently united to address concerns with Penske Entertainment. This shows the complex dynamics between team ownership and series leadership. This collaborative approach differs from the more individualistic team operations seen in NASCAR and F1.
Events like the Detroit Grand Prix serve as meeting grounds where owners from different series can network and explore potential partnerships.
The Future of IndyCar Team Ownership
IndyCar team ownership is evolving rapidly with new charter systems and changing ownership structures reshaping the competitive landscape. Investment from outside motorsports and technological innovations are creating unprecedented opportunities.
Emerging Teams and Owners
The IndyCar Series is witnessing exciting shifts in team ownership, with crossover interest from other racing disciplines. Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks has publicly expressed interest in future Indianapolis 500 entries. He has already tapped Helio Castroneves to drive the PROJECT91 entry.
McLaren has significantly strengthened its position by taking 100% ownership of its IndyCar team. This completes a transformation that began in 2019.
The new charter system established for team owners has created a more stable ownership structure. Ten teams have accepted charters for 25 entries, including:
| Team | Number of Charters |
|---|---|
| AJ Foyt Racing | 2 |
| Andretti Global | 3 |
| Arrow McLaren | 3 |
| Chip Ganassi Racing | 3 |
| Dale Coyne Racing | 1* |
*Additional teams also hold charters according to the program launched after final team owners signed.
Trends and Innovations in IndyCar
Financial considerations are increasingly driving team ownership decisions in IndyCar.
Team owners are questioning costs associated with potential new racecars. They highlight tensions between innovation and sustainability.
Technology integration is revolutionizing team operations. Advanced telemetry, AI race strategy tools, and simulator technology are becoming competitive differentiators for well-funded operations.
Diversity in ownership is gradually improving, with more international investors and partnerships entering the Indianapolis Motor Speedway ecosystem. These new stakeholders bring fresh perspectives to the traditional American open-wheel racing series.
Environmental sustainability initiatives are becoming essential components of team identity. Forward-thinking owners are investing in carbon reduction programs and exploring alternative fuels. Motorsports faces increasing pressure to demonstrate environmental responsibility.
The charter system has created a two-tier ownership structure. Established charter-holding teams have guaranteed entries and financial benefits. Meanwhile, independent operations fight for remaining grid positions.