A blend of distinctive features characterizes this weekend’s non-points race, marking a significant departure for IndyCar since 2008, when it last ventured into non-championship territory in Surfers Paradise, Australia.
Set against the backdrop of a 17-turn, 3.067-mile circuit just outside Palm Springs, California, this event promises a tapestry of excitement and innovation.
First and foremost, this is a made-for-TV spectacle, slated to air on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET across NBC, Peacock, and the IndyCar Radio Network. Preceding the main event are two days of testing, totaling nine hours, to be streamed exclusively on Peacock.
While attendance will be restricted, the majority of spectators will comprise affluent club members. The intention to court more of these high-profile individuals into the series, akin to the involvement of Don Cusick, a partner at Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, in the Indianapolis 500, is no secret.
Moreover, the stakes are high, with a staggering $1.756 million purse up for grabs, the largest outside the iconic Indianapolis 500. The winner of Sunday’s 20-lap sprint will walk away with $500,000, with prizes ranging down to $23,000 for all other participants.
A grid of 27 cars will be divided into two groups, competing in heat races to determine the starting lineup for the final showdown. This reintroduces a format last seen in 2013 at Iowa Speedway, injecting a fresh dynamic into the competition.
In the words of IndyCar CEO Mark Miles during a recent media briefing, “We don’t know exactly what will be harvested from it, but… it’s a great connection to the members.” The national television exposure offers a platform to attract new eyes to IndyCar, leveraging the uniqueness of this event.
The venue, owned by Tim Rogers and managed by his son John, previously hosted an IndyCar Open Test ahead of the 2023 season, further solidifying its role in the series.
As for gauging success, Miles emphasizes the importance of feedback from key stakeholders, particularly the Rogers family and club members, whose experiences will be pivotal. Social media sentiment, fan reactions, sponsor feedback, and team owners’ perspectives will all contribute to the post-event evaluation.
When pressed on the potential for future iterations of this event, Miles remains cautious, emphasizing the need for careful consideration. While the prospect of converting it into a points race or increasing public attendance is tantalizing, logistical challenges, particularly concerning the venue’s capacity, must be addressed.
In Miles’ words, “We’ll just sit down and work through it.” The event’s success this weekend may pave the way for broader discussions and potential evolution, but for now, the focus remains on delivering an unforgettable showcase of IndyCar racing.
