Yes, I did notice the empty seats. A previous news comment mentioned the overall cost to attend a race, when the gas prices were higher, inclusive of food and lodging. The lodging cost impact when the motels raise their prices for the race weekend and also require a minimum 2 night stay. Others have mentioned the point spread for the Chase drivers as impacting attendance. With 3 remaining races , seems only the top 3 or 4 have a good chance for the Cup.
2009 will be interesting as to the ticket renewals for those wishing to retain the same seats. My tickets @ New Hampshire Motor Speedway remain at $110/ea for 2009 and must be paid by 12-1-08 to guarantee the same seats. Nice to have the money 10 months prior to the event, i.e. cash flow.
Seems other racing venues are also experiencing the same situations. As of last week, the IRL did not have a series sponsor. F 1 has dropped the US, Canada and France for 2009. Seems the other race promoters are being subsidized by their governments and F 1 is contemplating spec engines and other common parts.
Canada:
http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dl...8/newsletter01
Ferrari:
http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dl...1/newsletter01
Maybe the Can-Am series will return, bring what you have, race with a minimum of rules.