Lewis promoted to IRL Director of Operations.

John Lewis has been promoted to director of operations for the Indy Racing League effective immediately, league officials announced today.

Lewis' duties will include overseeing day-to-day operations of the Indy Racing League, such as coordinating manpower and equipment for all racing events and testing, approving testing schedules and track rental agreements, and acting as a liaison to Indy Racing League teams and support series.

Lewis will report to Brian Barnhart, who was promoted to vice president, operations of the Indy Racing League in August 2000. Barnhart will continue to work closely with Tony George, Indy Racing League president and chief executive officer, on scheduling race dates, series manufacturer relations and other developmental issues.

"We welcome John's enthusiasm and passion for motorsports to the Indy Racing League," said Barnhart. "His dedication to the Speedway and its ancillary events has been key to its growth in the last six years. I am confident that John's character and work ethic will be vital to the continued success of the Indy Racing League for years to come."

Lewis has been an employee of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway since 1994 and most recently served as manager of facilities for the world-famous Speedway. As part of his duties, Lewis was in charge of testing, track rentals and construction of temporary facilities at Walt Disney World Speedway each year.

He also has been in charge of fire control at Indy Racing Northern Light Series events since June 1997, as he coordinates fire and safety crew movements during Northern Light Series events.

Lewis is a native of Seymour, Indiana, and is a 1994 graduate of Ball State University with a degree in sports administration and business.