December 21, 2001  

I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of CART, to thank each of you for your dedication to and support of CART by way of our volunteer program. Each of you contributes countless hours and personal resources to a sport we all love and care deeply for. Your participation with CART is an important  key to CART's past and future success and we thank you.

There has been much written lately about CART that has raised many questions.  It is important that you hear from CART that, despite what you may read, we are gearing up full swing for 2002 with an anticipated field of 20 cars with the possibility of additional teams fielding entries depending on how sponsorships develop in the off season. Fedex has renewed their sponsorship of the series and Bridgestone will debut their flagship brand of tire with us in 2002. The schedule will possibly see a 20th race added at a to be determined venue and, as we speak, our teams are testing throughout the country. So the 2002 season is just around the corner. With the addition of Mexico City, Montreal and Denver, it should be an outstanding season. 

There are also changes abound at CART but please don't let that distract you from the fact that we are working hard to solidify CART as a world leader in motorsports. As we approach the holidays, I wish you, your family and friends a joyous season and a prosperous New Year. I look forward to meeting each of you as we hit the streets of the world in 2002.

With Kindest Regards,

John J. Lopes
Senior Vice President of Racing Operations
CART, Inc.