Jeff Belskus stays as Hulman president, still INDYCAR CEO on interim basis
Mark Miles, a sports executive that led Indianapolis’ successful bid to land Super Bowl XLVI and served for 15 years as CEO of the ATP men’s tennis tour, has taken over as CEO of Hulman and Company — parent operation for INDYCAR and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. According to a press release, Miles will begin his new duties on Dec. 17.
In addition, Jeff Belskus will remain with Hulman as its president, as well as CEO of IMS and the interim CEO of INDYCAR. Belskus took over leadership of the series after the recent departure of Randy Bernard and said that his interim tag is still being kept during a press conference this morning.
Miles served as Chairman of the Board for the 2012 Super Bowl Host Committee. Last year’s NFL title tilt was hailed as one of the most successful events in the history of the sport, attracting more than one million fans to the Indy region.
In addition, Miles’ tenure as CEO of the ATP Tour (1990-2005) saw increased revenue and an expanded global presence for the circuit. Prize money also jumped considerably and key sponsorships with companies such as Mercedes-Benz were also implemented.
“It is an honor to join Hulman & Company, known for its tradition of success,” Miles said in the aforementioned press release. “I’m excited about joining the team and contributing my lifetime learning from international professional sports, large-scale major sports events and business environments. I have worked for companies with global profiles and brands, and I’m happy to continue that on behalf of the Hulman-George family and its significant business interests.”
As for his thoughts on the IZOD IndyCar Series, Miles maintained on Tuesday that while he would not be involved in the day-to-day operations of Hulman’s key racing business, he would like to help Belskus and said that the “building blocks” were in place for a great 2013 season.
He also said the series was not for sale, citing the “important” need for the Indianapolis 500 and the series itself to be run together.
Still, the racing side belongs to Belskus, whose first query directed to him in this morning’s conference was about Bernard’s exit (Belskus said it was “a mutual decision” between Bernard and the Hulman board). Belskus later added that he hoped in the weeks ahead to bring “clarity” to a variety of issues facing INDYCAR — including a final decision on what to do about engine manufacturer Lotus and other matters such as gaining a tire supplier for 2015 and beyond.
