Speedvision To Re-launch as Speed Channel
Stamford, Conn., Oct. 23, 2001 — Speedvision, the first and only 24-hour cable network devoted exclusively to the excitement and heart-pumping action of motorsports, is being re-launched early next year as Speed Channel, it was announced today by the network's president, Jim Liberatore. In addition to the network's new name, Liberatore unveiled Speed Channel's new logo and set Feb. 4, 2002 as the official date for the network's new programming and look to debut.
"This is just the first step in an evolutionary process to deliver a more focused and quality product, so that viewers will continue to distinguish Speed Channel as the top motorsports destination," Liberatore said. "This is much more than a new name and a fresh coat of paint. We have every expectation that, with our enhanced Fox Sports influence, Speed Channel programming and production will continue to be the benchmark for motorsports television."
Liberatore also announced that the popular Inside Winston Cup program, shelved earlier this year, would return to the network's weekly programming line-up. The new and improved show will benefit tremendously from Fox Sports' national television partnership with NASCAR. Inside Winston Cup provides highlights and results from the week's NASCAR action from the unique, in-depth perspective of the racers themselves. Other NASCAR-themed programs are in development.
Speed Channel, which celebrates its sixth anniversary in January 2002, is the first and only 24-hour cable network devoted exclusively to motorsports and the human fascination for speed. Speed Channel is home to much of the world's marquee racing events including CART, Formula 1, Classic Cars, Le Mans, the American Le Mans Series, the World Rally Championship and car shows from around the globe. Currently seen in more than 45m homes, Speed Channel was acquired by Fox Cable Networks Group in July 2001.