Bernard previously served as the CEO of Professional Bull Riders, serving from 1995 to 2010.[1] He sold it in 2007, stayed for three more years, then opted out of his contract's fourth year of his contract to run IndyCar.[2]
Bernard assumed the role as IndyCar's CEO in March 2010, replacing series founder Tony George. From the start, he said he would increase the sport's visibility among general audiences, expand the schedule to important markets for advertisers and create a 50/50 split between oval and road racing.[3]
Bernard planned a return for IndyCar to Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the 2011 season, only to have the race end in tragedy. He was able to secure a return to Fontanain2012 and Pocono for 2013. Under his tenure, the series retired the name "Indy Racing League" and starting in 2011, it was rebranded "IndyCar". He also oversaw the ICONIC Project, which selected a new engine and chassis package for the 2012 season. It led to the return of Chevrolet and manufacturer competition to IndyCar.[4]
^"IZOD Indycar Series". Chevrolet revs up new engine for 2012 car. www.indycar.com. Archived from the original on March 17, 2011. Retrieved 22 December 2017.