The first Verizon IndyCars took to the new road course at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Thursday morning in warm, sunny weather. They were the first of four groups on course. At first, the IndyCars mostly seemed to go out and in with not much actual on-track running, at least at first. It’s called acclimation.
Twenty-five IndyCars are entered for the Grand Prix of Indianapolis this weekend, which will run on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn road course. The cars race clockwise, opposite of the Indianapolis 500.
Five of the drivers are Rookies, including ‘newcomer’ MARTIN PLOWMAN of England, who will be racing for A.J. Foyt Enterprises in No.41 Honda.
There are ten Chevrolets, and fifteen Honda’s this weekend.
This is a full Road to Indy race schedule, with the Indy Lights presented by Cooper Tires, Pro Mazda Presented by Cooper Tires, and Cooper Tires USF2000 Powered by Mazda groups.
Thursday is practice for all four groups, followed by the Celebration of Automobiles Track Laps.
Friday is IndyCar practice, qualifying for everyone, and three races for the support groups.
Saturday are more races – all four groups, plus the Celebration of Automobiles. The IndyCar road race begins at 3:50pm local time.
Sunday starts practice for this year’s Indianapolis 500 race, and will continue through Thursday – noon to 6pm daily, local time.