IZOD IndyCar News Jan. 17
1. DW12 chassis shows its mettle in wind tunnel
2. Servia joins Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
3. Calendar aims to raise money for Japanese earthquake victims
4. Virginia International Raceway fills USF2000 slate
1. DW12 chassis shows its mettle in wind tunnel: A two-day wind tunnel test last week proved that the Dallara DW12 chassis is up to the task on ovals, according to INDYCAR vice president of technology Will Phillips.
Questions arose during testing in November at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as the chassis achieved only an average lap speed of 215.6 mph on the 2.5-mile oval. INDYCAR and Dallara Automobili arranged the full-scale, rolling test at Windshear in North Carolina to discern what could be done to increase aerodynamic performance.
A 2011 Target Chip Ganassi Racing IR11 chassis in qualification trim that recorded a 227.34 mph lap speed at the Speedway in May was utilized as a baseline reference.
"We then compared the 2012 car as it was run at its fastest during the (November) testing at the Speedway," Phillips said. "We showed that aerodynamically the car was limited to 218.4 mph, so the (drivers/teams) did a good job of reaching its potential. We then compared the production car, which is slightly different from the prototype in terms of different mirrors, different rear wheel fairings, subtle differences in chassis construction and better integration of the Zylon (side intrusion) panels.
"Basically, the car is more slippery (moves the air better). That lifted the speed as the car was run. We then looked at how could we improve the aerodynamic force of the car. Basically, by optimizing the aero set-up, re-balancing the car and then putting on some aero development parts, it showed that using a nominal assumed horsepower of 575 the car is easily capable of 225 mph."
Fifteen IZOD IndyCar Series teams picked up their first DW12 chassis on Dec. 15, with 17 additional chassis being picked up Jan. 16-17. On-track engine development for manufacturers Chevrolet, Honda and Lotus continues this week at Sebring International Raceway. The season-opening Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is March 25, and the first oval race is the Indianapolis 500 on May 27.
"Same test at same venue using an '11 car and '12 car, and that's the only data we're using to compare," Phillips said. "It's about as clean as we can make it for a two-day test."
With the introduction of multiple aerodynamic body kits in 2013, the potential of higher speeds will be an item INDYCAR officials will have to address.
"As we look at aero kits for 2013, the car could be exceeding expectations as they reduce drag further," Phillips said. "But it's not always about aerodynamics. You have to mechanically set the car up to drive it, so it's always a balance. Aerodynamically, we've proven that it can happen but we haven't proven mechanically that we can set the car up to go that speed yet."
2. Servia joins Dreyer & Reinbold Racing: Oriol Servia, who finished fourth in the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series championship after a year's absence, will join Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for the 2012 season.
Servia, a native of Catalonia, Spain, posted 11 top-10 finishes with a high of second at New Hampshire and Baltimore for Newman/Haas Racing. He also started seven races in the top 10, highlighted by a front-row start in the 100th anniversary Indianapolis 500.
Servia led all drivers in laps completed (2,103 of 2,011) and was the only driver to finish in the top 10 in the first five races of the season. He was among three drivers to be running at the finish in all 17 races.
"With a new engine, new chassis and a revamped engineering department, we believe it is crucial to have a highly talented veteran driver to be able to develop these new components," Dreyer & Reinbold co-owner Dennis Reinbold said. "Oriol has always been a smart driver and has always put himself and his team in a position to win races. We are going to have to be well-prepared to take advantage of his abilities and we look forward to the challenge."
Servia, 37, was runner-up in the 2005 Champ Car World Series standings and was the 1999 Indy Lights champion (finished second in five races and earned three pole positions).
"I couldn't be more excited, for many reasons," he said. "DRR is a team that I raced against since 2008 and they've always shown to be very professional at the racetrack. Although I knew the owners, I didn't know them very well, to be honest. Before signing with the team, like everybody else, I did my research and I couldn't find one individual that didn't speak highly of Dennis or Robbie (Buhl), which gave me a lot of confidence.
"I went to the team's sponsor summit last week (in Florida) and met all of their partners that they have been involved with for many, many years, which was another clear sign that they are good people."
Dreyer & Reinbold Racing is a Lotus partner team. Servia is eager to begin testing in the new Dallara DW12 chassis. The season-opening Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is March 25. Last year, he gained six positions relative to his starting spot of 15th in the street course race.
"I'm at the best point in my career and it was very important to partner with the right team," he said. "When I visited the DRR facility in Indianapolis, I couldn't have been more impressed. We are starting with a new engine and chassis, and I have confidence in Lotus and our ability to develop a quality product in 2012. When you have everyone pulling in the same direction like we are now is when we can accomplish our goals."
Dreyer & Reinbold Racing continues to work toward a second full-time entry for the 2012 season.
3. Calendar aims to raise money for Japanese earthquake victims: Japanese journalists and brothers Kazuki Saito and Hiroyuki Saito have created a calendar using some of their favorite images from the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series to raise money for charities supporting the families affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, which struck Japan on March 11, 2011.
This photo calendar was created to support recovery in the areas affected.
The brothers cover the IZOD IndyCar Series via their website US-RACING.net. Chief editor Kazuki Saito and his brother, motorsports photographer Hiroyuki Saito, both grew up in Tagajo city, Miyagi Prefecture, one of the areas worst affected by the disaster.
The tsunami came within a half-mile of their family home. Not only did it cause unprecedented loss of life, it also destroyed the homes and jobs of many of the survivors. Following the earthquake Kazuki and Hiroyuki travelled to their hometown and saw for themselves the true destruction that had occurred that day.
They realized just how long the road to recovery would be for the region, and that long-term support will be required to move forward.
"At US-RACING, we learned that no one is immune to natural disasters and felt more people around the world could learn from this," the brothers wrote in their calendar. "As our way of contributing to the recovery, we decided to launch the 'USRACING Photo Aid Appeal', making a selection of our photos available for purchase and download, in the hope that the people affected in this disaster will not be forgotten."
Proceeds will be donated to charity organizations that support families in the affected areas who have children suffering from disabilities.
The calendar can be purchased via the following link. http://www.dlmarket.jp/product_info.php/products_id/182153/language/en
4. Virginia International Raceway fills USF2000 slate: The Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship Powered by Mazda added the finishing touches to its strong 2012 race schedule - which was announced last week - by today confirming a pair of season-ending events at Virginia International Raceway on September 14 and 15 in support of the American Le Mans Series. Both series will be making their first appearances on the 4.1-mile, 21-turn 'Grand Course' road course configuration at the Alton, Va., circuit.
"I am thrilled to be able to confirm our events at VIR," said Dan Andersen, Owner and CEO of Andersen Promotions, the series promoter. "This was the final piece to an exciting schedule in support of INDYCAR and the ALMS that will showcase the incredible talent we have in place this year. VIR is a first-class facility, and it is one of the best road courses in America. It is scenic, challenging, fan-friendly and will make a great site for our season finale.
"We currently have 20 confirmed drivers with more announcements expected. As the first step on the Mazda Road to Indy ladder, our goal is to provide the right mix of circuits to offer the best training ground. We now have four permanent road courses, two street circuits and one oval event - all at high-profile venues - I couldn't be more pleased with our schedule for this season. We are looking forward to some great racing."
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Hinchcliffe signs with Andretti Autosport
Go Daddy goes with Rookie of the Year for the GoDaddy.com #27 Chevrolet
INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 11, 2012) - Andretti Autosport announced today it has signed Canadian James Hinchcliffe to a multi-year IZOD IndyCar Series deal. Hinchcliffe, a young, yet accomplished racer, steps into a big role as driver of the GoDaddy.com Chevrolet for 2012.
In his first year in the IZOD IndyCar Series, Hinchcliffe took three top-five and seven top-10 finishes to earn the series' Rookie of the Year title despite missing the season-opener in St. Petersburg, Fla. Hinchcliffe, a 25-year-old from Toronto with both British and Canadian lineage, finished fourth at the 2011 Long Beach, New Hampshire and Kentucky races.
The well-spoken television and Internet personality makes a great match for Go Daddy, the world's largest Web hosting provider¹ and legendary television advertiser. Hinchcliffe is a skilled driver who has been honored numerous times for his on-track achievements in open-wheel racing. Hinchcliffe was recently a nominee for the 2011 Autosport Rookie of the Year award in England and won the prestigious Greg Moore Legacy Award in 2010 for his efforts in the Firestone Indy Lights. Hinchcliffe becomes the second driver on the Andretti Autosport roster to have won the Greg Moore Legacy Award, joining 2004 winner and new teammate Ryan Hunter-Reay.
Hinchcliffe's path to IndyCar began with two seasons in Firestone Indy Lights. In 2009, he secured five podium finishes, six top-five and 10 top-10 finishes, including a second place finish at Mid-Ohio. The following year he impressed the paddock with three wins, 10 top-five finishes and a series-best four pole positions, ultimately finishing second in the 2010 Firestone Indy Lights championship.
Hinchcliffe began his racing career in karting and captured numerous titles such as the TKC Junior Rotax Class Karting Championship, the Junior Rotax Canada Cup and TKC Winter Series Championship. After earning several more regional and national karting series and championships throughout the United States and Canada, Hinchcliffe moved on to successfully compete in the Bridgestone Racing Academy F2000 series, Formula BMW, Star Mazda series, Atlantic Championship and A1 Grand Prix series.
Go Daddy, the world's largest provider of Web hosting, domain name registrations and net new SSL Certificates, also sponsors Mario, Michael and Marco Andretti as part of a three-generation spokesperson campaign designed to showcase Go Daddy products and services. To learn how to easily and affordably build an online presence, visit www.GoDaddy.com.
The 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series season begins March 25 on the streets of St. Petersburg. A full season schedule is available at www.GoDaddy.com/Andretti.
For more information, please visit www.AndrettiAutosport.com.
MICHAEL ANDRETTI, CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ANDRETTI AUTOSPORT: "James is a perfect addition to our team for next year. He's got a lot of talent and we believe he will be great for our driver chemistry. He will definitely grow and thrive with Andretti Autosport. Even in his rookie year in IndyCar, he proved to be a great competitor. I look forward to seeing what he is capable of in the next few months."
BARB RECHTERMAN, SENIOR EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER, GO DADDY: "I saw an article that said 'Hinch was a cinch' to drive our Go Daddy car. I guess the many reasons Go Daddy wanted to put James behind the wheel are obvious ... he's tech savvy, personable, edgy and 100 percent competitive ... just like Go Daddy!"
JAMES HINCHCLIFFE, DRIVER, GODADDY.COM CHEVROLET: "I'm so excited to be driving with the Andretti Autosport team and representing Go Daddy next season. Go Daddy is one of the best sponsors in sports, in terms of their activation execution ... plus Go Daddy is a world leader in just about everything they do. I have to thank Michael [Andretti] and Go Daddy for providing me this opportunity to compete for the championship and an Indy 500 victory."
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INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 11, 2012) - Andretti Autosport announced today it has signed Canadian James Hinchcliffe to a multi-year IZOD IndyCar Series deal. Hinchcliffe, a young, yet accomplished racer, steps into a big role as driver of the GoDaddy.com Chevrolet for 2012.
In his first year in the IZOD IndyCar Series, Hinchcliffe took three top-five and seven top-10 finishes to earn the series' Rookie of the Year title despite missing the season-opener in St. Petersburg, Fla. Hinchcliffe, a 25-year-old from Toronto with both British and Canadian lineage, finished fourth at the 2011 Long Beach, New Hampshire and Kentucky races.
The well-spoken television and Internet personality makes a great match for Go Daddy, the world's largest Web hosting provider¹ and legendary television advertiser. Hinchcliffe is a skilled driver who has been honored numerous times for his on-track achievements in open-wheel racing. Hinchcliffe was recently a nominee for the 2011 Autosport Rookie of the Year award in England and won the prestigious Greg Moore Legacy Award in 2010 for his efforts in the Firestone Indy Lights. Hinchcliffe becomes the second driver on the Andretti Autosport roster to have won the Greg Moore Legacy Award, joining 2004 winner and new teammate Ryan Hunter-Reay.
Hinchcliffe's path to IndyCar began with two seasons in Firestone Indy Lights. In 2009, he secured five podium finishes, six top-five and 10 top-10 finishes, including a second place finish at Mid-Ohio. The following year he impressed the paddock with three wins, 10 top-five finishes and a series-best four pole positions, ultimately finishing second in the 2010 Firestone Indy Lights championship.
Hinchcliffe began his racing career in karting and captured numerous titles such as the TKC Junior Rotax Class Karting Championship, the Junior Rotax Canada Cup and TKC Winter Series Championship. After earning several more regional and national karting series and championships throughout the United States and Canada, Hinchcliffe moved on to successfully compete in the Bridgestone Racing Academy F2000 series, Formula BMW, Star Mazda series, Atlantic Championship and A1 Grand Prix series.
Go Daddy, the world's largest provider of Web hosting, domain name registrations and net new SSL Certificates, also sponsors Mario, Michael and Marco Andretti as part of a three-generation spokesperson campaign designed to showcase Go Daddy products and services. To learn how to easily and affordably build an online presence, visit www.GoDaddy.com.
The 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series season begins March 25 on the streets of St. Petersburg. A full season schedule is available at www.GoDaddy.com/Andretti.
For more information, please visit www.AndrettiAutosport.com.
MICHAEL ANDRETTI, CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ANDRETTI AUTOSPORT: "James is a perfect addition to our team for next year. He's got a lot of talent and we believe he will be great for our driver chemistry. He will definitely grow and thrive with Andretti Autosport. Even in his rookie year in IndyCar, he proved to be a great competitor. I look forward to seeing what he is capable of in the next few months."
BARB RECHTERMAN, SENIOR EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER, GO DADDY: "I saw an article that said 'Hinch was a cinch' to drive our Go Daddy car. I guess the many reasons Go Daddy wanted to put James behind the wheel are obvious ... he's tech savvy, personable, edgy and 100 percent competitive ... just like Go Daddy!"
JAMES HINCHCLIFFE, DRIVER, GODADDY.COM CHEVROLET: "I'm so excited to be driving with the Andretti Autosport team and representing Go Daddy next season. Go Daddy is one of the best sponsors in sports, in terms of their activation execution ... plus Go Daddy is a world leader in just about everything they do. I have to thank Michael [Andretti] and Go Daddy for providing me this opportunity to compete for the championship and an Indy 500 victory."
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Barfield named IndyCar Series race director
INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012) - INDYCAR announced today that Beaux Barfield has accepted the position of Race Director for the IZOD IndyCar Series. He will begin his duties immediately.
Barfield, a native of Houston, has served as race director of the American Le Mans Series since August 2008. He previously worked as a Champ Car race steward (2003-2008) during which he served as Race Director of the Champ Car-sanctioned Atlantic and Trans Am series. Barfield was also chief steward for the USF2000 National Championship from 2001-2003.
"Though Beaux's most recent experience is in sports car racing, his roots are in open-wheel racing," said INDYCAR CEO Randy Bernard. "He has built a strong reputation as a race director with ALMS and bringing him on board ensures that INDYCAR has a dedicated Race Director with the right level of expertise for the IZOD IndyCar Series."
As Race Director, Barfield will be the IZOD IndyCar Series' chief competition official, overseeing on-track race decisions and enforcing rules and procedural issues.
"I grew up around racing, so I've been involved in it all my life," Barfield said. "The one thing that I wanted to do as a racing driver growing up in America was to be involved with the Indy 500. When my driving career took a change of course and I found myself officiating, it was still a goal of mine to get to Indy car racing and the Indy 500. In that regard, it represents the pinnacle of my aspirations as a race official. I'm truly honored to be a part of INDYCAR."
In addition to officiating experience, Barfield has experience as a driver competing in karting, Formula Ford 2000 and Indy Lights. He also served as lead instructor from 1992-2007 for what became the Panoz Racing School at Road Atlanta.
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Barfield, a native of Houston, has served as race director of the American Le Mans Series since August 2008. He previously worked as a Champ Car race steward (2003-2008) during which he served as Race Director of the Champ Car-sanctioned Atlantic and Trans Am series. Barfield was also chief steward for the USF2000 National Championship from 2001-2003.
"Though Beaux's most recent experience is in sports car racing, his roots are in open-wheel racing," said INDYCAR CEO Randy Bernard. "He has built a strong reputation as a race director with ALMS and bringing him on board ensures that INDYCAR has a dedicated Race Director with the right level of expertise for the IZOD IndyCar Series."
As Race Director, Barfield will be the IZOD IndyCar Series' chief competition official, overseeing on-track race decisions and enforcing rules and procedural issues.
"I grew up around racing, so I've been involved in it all my life," Barfield said. "The one thing that I wanted to do as a racing driver growing up in America was to be involved with the Indy 500. When my driving career took a change of course and I found myself officiating, it was still a goal of mine to get to Indy car racing and the Indy 500. In that regard, it represents the pinnacle of my aspirations as a race official. I'm truly honored to be a part of INDYCAR."
In addition to officiating experience, Barfield has experience as a driver competing in karting, Formula Ford 2000 and Indy Lights. He also served as lead instructor from 1992-2007 for what became the Panoz Racing School at Road Atlanta.
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IZOD IndyCar series announces 2012 schedule
INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, Dec. 22, 2011) - A first-ever event in China and two venues that return after multi-year absences highlight the IZOD IndyCar Series schedule for 2012 announced today.
The 2012 season, which will feature the return of engine manufacturer competition and a new universal chassis produced by Dallara Automobili, kicks off Sunday, March 25, with the eighth Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
The IZOD IndyCar Series again presents the most diverse schedule in motorsports with the challenges of races on temporary street circuits, permanent road courses, superspeedways and short ovals in four countries.
"To be crowned IZOD IndyCar Series champion, the driver must be able to master a diversified race schedule that truly challenges the best in the world," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "The 2012 schedule offers our drivers and teams the test of conquering both ovals and road and street races. Adding to the diversity of the season, we're excited with the launch of three engine manufacturers vying for the Manufacturers Trophy."
The scenic Belle Isle park circuit will be the site of the recently announced Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix on Sunday, June 3. The IZOD IndyCar Series had competed at the Raceway at Belle Isle in 2007 and '08. Also returning to the schedule is the 2-mile Auto Club Speedway oval in Fontana, Calif., for a race under the lights Saturday, Sept. 15. INDYCAR sanctioned four races at Auto Club Speedway between 2002 and '05, while CART hosted events at the track from 1997 to 2002.
Night races also will be held at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday, June 9, and the .875-mile Iowa Speedway on Saturday, June 23.
The Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for Sunday, May 27, with Pole Day on Saturday, May 19.
The IZOD IndyCar Series returns to Barber Motorsports Park for the third consecutive year on Sunday, April 1, and the 38th Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach will be held Sunday, April 15. Also, the series will compete on the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the third time on Sunday, April 29, as the lead-in to Indianapolis 500 activities.
Back-to-back races in Canada highlight July - on the streets of Exhibition Place in Toronto on Sunday, July 8, and on the exciting City Centre Airport circuit in Edmonton, Alberta, on Sunday, July 22.
The permanent road courses of the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (Sunday, Aug. 5) and Infineon Raceway (Sunday, Aug. 26) also retain their traditional dates. On Sunday, Sept. 2, the IZOD IndyCar Series will electrify the streets of downtown Baltimore for the second consecutive year.
"INDYCAR is excited about the confirmed races announced today," said Bernard. "With the new car and engine manufacturer competition, we believe they will be tremendous events that will help INDYCAR grow.
"We are exploring adding additional events to the 2012 schedule. We're in the process of confirming a 16th event, while also considering adding a 17th race to the calendar."
In addition to the race schedule, the series' annual preseason Open Test will be held at Sebring International Raceway on March 5-8.
The television lineup and event start times will be announced soon. Also, the 2012 Indy Lights schedule will be announced soon.
Date Track Venue
March 25 Streets of St. Petersburg 1.8-mile street course
April 1 Barber Motorsports Park 2.3-mile road course
April 15 Streets of Long Beach 1.968-mile street course
April 29 Streets of Sao Paulo 2.536-mile street course
May 27 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5-mile oval
June 3 Raceway at Belle Isle Park 2.1-mile street course
June 9 Texas Motor Speedway 1.5-mile oval
June 23 Iowa Speedway .875-mile oval
July 8 Streets of Toronto 1.755-mile street course
July 22 Edmonton City Centre Airport 1.973-mile airport course
Aug. 5 Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course 2.258-mile road course
Aug. 19 Streets of Qingdao, China 3.87-mile street course
Aug. 26 Infineon Raceway 2.303-mile road course
Sept. 2 Streets of Baltimore 2-mile street course
Sept. 15 Auto Club Speedway 2-mile oval
Schedule subject to change
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The 2012 season, which will feature the return of engine manufacturer competition and a new universal chassis produced by Dallara Automobili, kicks off Sunday, March 25, with the eighth Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
The IZOD IndyCar Series again presents the most diverse schedule in motorsports with the challenges of races on temporary street circuits, permanent road courses, superspeedways and short ovals in four countries.
"To be crowned IZOD IndyCar Series champion, the driver must be able to master a diversified race schedule that truly challenges the best in the world," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "The 2012 schedule offers our drivers and teams the test of conquering both ovals and road and street races. Adding to the diversity of the season, we're excited with the launch of three engine manufacturers vying for the Manufacturers Trophy."
The scenic Belle Isle park circuit will be the site of the recently announced Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix on Sunday, June 3. The IZOD IndyCar Series had competed at the Raceway at Belle Isle in 2007 and '08. Also returning to the schedule is the 2-mile Auto Club Speedway oval in Fontana, Calif., for a race under the lights Saturday, Sept. 15. INDYCAR sanctioned four races at Auto Club Speedway between 2002 and '05, while CART hosted events at the track from 1997 to 2002.
Night races also will be held at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday, June 9, and the .875-mile Iowa Speedway on Saturday, June 23.
The Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for Sunday, May 27, with Pole Day on Saturday, May 19.
The IZOD IndyCar Series returns to Barber Motorsports Park for the third consecutive year on Sunday, April 1, and the 38th Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach will be held Sunday, April 15. Also, the series will compete on the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the third time on Sunday, April 29, as the lead-in to Indianapolis 500 activities.
Back-to-back races in Canada highlight July - on the streets of Exhibition Place in Toronto on Sunday, July 8, and on the exciting City Centre Airport circuit in Edmonton, Alberta, on Sunday, July 22.
The permanent road courses of the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (Sunday, Aug. 5) and Infineon Raceway (Sunday, Aug. 26) also retain their traditional dates. On Sunday, Sept. 2, the IZOD IndyCar Series will electrify the streets of downtown Baltimore for the second consecutive year.
"INDYCAR is excited about the confirmed races announced today," said Bernard. "With the new car and engine manufacturer competition, we believe they will be tremendous events that will help INDYCAR grow.
"We are exploring adding additional events to the 2012 schedule. We're in the process of confirming a 16th event, while also considering adding a 17th race to the calendar."
In addition to the race schedule, the series' annual preseason Open Test will be held at Sebring International Raceway on March 5-8.
The television lineup and event start times will be announced soon. Also, the 2012 Indy Lights schedule will be announced soon.
Date Track Venue
March 25 Streets of St. Petersburg 1.8-mile street course
April 1 Barber Motorsports Park 2.3-mile road course
April 15 Streets of Long Beach 1.968-mile street course
April 29 Streets of Sao Paulo 2.536-mile street course
May 27 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 2.5-mile oval
June 3 Raceway at Belle Isle Park 2.1-mile street course
June 9 Texas Motor Speedway 1.5-mile oval
June 23 Iowa Speedway .875-mile oval
July 8 Streets of Toronto 1.755-mile street course
July 22 Edmonton City Centre Airport 1.973-mile airport course
Aug. 5 Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course 2.258-mile road course
Aug. 19 Streets of Qingdao, China 3.87-mile street course
Aug. 26 Infineon Raceway 2.303-mile road course
Sept. 2 Streets of Baltimore 2-mile street course
Sept. 15 Auto Club Speedway 2-mile oval
Schedule subject to change
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AJ Foyt Racing Hires Mike Conway To Drive No. 14 ABC Supply Indy Car
HOUSTON December 20, 2011—AJ Foyt Racing has hired Long Beach Grand Prix winner Mike Conway to drive the No. 14 ABC Supply Honda in the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series.
Conway, who won the Long Beach Grand Prix in his 26th IndyCar start, brings strength on the road courses to the team. In 2011, he qualified in the top-10 six times on the road and street circuits, which is also where his four top-10 finishes came.
“With the Series having twice as many road courses as ovals, we looked for a driver who is fast on those tracks and Mike has certainly proved himself in that area,” said A.J. Foyt. “I’m looking forward to working with him,” adding with a chuckle, “I may even be able to give him a little advice when it comes to the ovals.”
“First of all I’d like to thank 2MB Sports Management and AJ Foyt Racing for making this deal come together. I can't wait to start work with the AJ Foyt Racing team and to drive the No. 14 ABC Supply Car. It's going to be an exciting season with the new cars and multiple engine manufacturers. Hopefully we can hit the ground running with off season developments and be quick out the box. I’m counting the days until the first test and the start of the season,” commented Mike Conway.
Conway made his first start in the IZOD IndyCar Series in 2009 driving for Dreyer-Reinbold. Towards mid-season he began capitalizing on his brilliant potential with several top-10 finishes before scoring his first podium –a third place finish at California’s challenging Infineon Raceway.
In 2010, he was in position to post his fourth top-10 finish in six starts but on the final lap of the Indianapolis 500, he collided with a suddenly slowing Ryan Hunter-Reay, launching Conway into the catchfence resulting in season-ending injuries to his leg and back.
Signing with Andretti Autosport in 2011, Conway dispelled all doubts about his return to the cockpit with a strong fourth place qualifying run in the season opener in St. Petersburg and an incredible drive in the Long Beach Grand Prix. In that race, he qualified third but dropped to 21st after a problem on the first pit stop. Conway fought his way back to lead the final 14 laps after executing a couple of textbook passes on frontrunners Ryan Briscoe and Dario Franchitti, who finished second and third.
The British Racing Drivers Club recently awarded the Innes Ireland Award to Conway in recognition of his inspiring comeback from his 2010 Indy 500 accident. The award is given to the driver who best displayed the qualities of courage and sportsmanship epitomized by the late Innes Ireland, a British Formula 1 driver who was badly injured in the 1961 Monaco Grand Prix. He recovered to win three Grands Prix the same season including the U.S. Grand Prix at Watkins Glen.
En route to Conway’s burgeoning IndyCar career, the 28-year-old Briton won several championships, triumphing in British Karting, the 2004 Formula Renault UK Series as well as the British F3 International Series in 2006. Conway captured the Macau Grand Prix in 2006 becoming the first British driver to do so since Darren Manning won it in 1999. Manning drove for the Foyt team from 2006-2008.
In 2007 and 2008, Conway raced in the very competitive GP2 Series (previously named Formula 3000), the feeder series to Formula 1. Conway, who won a sprint race in the streets of Monaco in 2008, also served as a test driver for the Honda Formula 1 team during that time.
"We all have big expectations for the upcoming season, and Mike shares our passion for getting the team back in victory lane,” Larry Foyt said. “There is no doubt he has a ton of talent and, when combined with A.J.'s experience, I think we can accomplish great things together."
Foyt’s ABC Supply team will take delivery of its 2012 Dallara this week and expects to start testing in early February.
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Conway, who won the Long Beach Grand Prix in his 26th IndyCar start, brings strength on the road courses to the team. In 2011, he qualified in the top-10 six times on the road and street circuits, which is also where his four top-10 finishes came.
“With the Series having twice as many road courses as ovals, we looked for a driver who is fast on those tracks and Mike has certainly proved himself in that area,” said A.J. Foyt. “I’m looking forward to working with him,” adding with a chuckle, “I may even be able to give him a little advice when it comes to the ovals.”
“First of all I’d like to thank 2MB Sports Management and AJ Foyt Racing for making this deal come together. I can't wait to start work with the AJ Foyt Racing team and to drive the No. 14 ABC Supply Car. It's going to be an exciting season with the new cars and multiple engine manufacturers. Hopefully we can hit the ground running with off season developments and be quick out the box. I’m counting the days until the first test and the start of the season,” commented Mike Conway.
Conway made his first start in the IZOD IndyCar Series in 2009 driving for Dreyer-Reinbold. Towards mid-season he began capitalizing on his brilliant potential with several top-10 finishes before scoring his first podium –a third place finish at California’s challenging Infineon Raceway.
In 2010, he was in position to post his fourth top-10 finish in six starts but on the final lap of the Indianapolis 500, he collided with a suddenly slowing Ryan Hunter-Reay, launching Conway into the catchfence resulting in season-ending injuries to his leg and back.
Signing with Andretti Autosport in 2011, Conway dispelled all doubts about his return to the cockpit with a strong fourth place qualifying run in the season opener in St. Petersburg and an incredible drive in the Long Beach Grand Prix. In that race, he qualified third but dropped to 21st after a problem on the first pit stop. Conway fought his way back to lead the final 14 laps after executing a couple of textbook passes on frontrunners Ryan Briscoe and Dario Franchitti, who finished second and third.
The British Racing Drivers Club recently awarded the Innes Ireland Award to Conway in recognition of his inspiring comeback from his 2010 Indy 500 accident. The award is given to the driver who best displayed the qualities of courage and sportsmanship epitomized by the late Innes Ireland, a British Formula 1 driver who was badly injured in the 1961 Monaco Grand Prix. He recovered to win three Grands Prix the same season including the U.S. Grand Prix at Watkins Glen.
En route to Conway’s burgeoning IndyCar career, the 28-year-old Briton won several championships, triumphing in British Karting, the 2004 Formula Renault UK Series as well as the British F3 International Series in 2006. Conway captured the Macau Grand Prix in 2006 becoming the first British driver to do so since Darren Manning won it in 1999. Manning drove for the Foyt team from 2006-2008.
In 2007 and 2008, Conway raced in the very competitive GP2 Series (previously named Formula 3000), the feeder series to Formula 1. Conway, who won a sprint race in the streets of Monaco in 2008, also served as a test driver for the Honda Formula 1 team during that time.
"We all have big expectations for the upcoming season, and Mike shares our passion for getting the team back in victory lane,” Larry Foyt said. “There is no doubt he has a ton of talent and, when combined with A.J.'s experience, I think we can accomplish great things together."
Foyt’s ABC Supply team will take delivery of its 2012 Dallara this week and expects to start testing in early February.
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Las Vegas Accident Review Complete
INDIANAPOLIS (Dec. 15, 2011) - A comprehensive review of the racing accident that claimed the life of Dan Wheldon is complete, INDYCAR announced Dec. 15.
Wheldon, the 2005 IZOD IndyCar Series champion and two-time Indianapolis 500 winner, suffered a non-survivable head injury Oct. 16 in a 15-car crash in Turn 2 of Las Vegas Motor Speedway during the final race of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season.
"There are multiple factors that are not uncommon to racing that came together in a way that claimed Dan's life," said Brian Barnhart, President of Operations, INDYCAR. "It is a tragedy. Our thoughts and support will always be with Dan's family."
The accident review revealed that Wheldon's path on the lower portion of the racetrack was blocked by the multi-car crash he was approaching. The No. 77 car became airborne and ultimately impacted a vertical post of the track fencing. The pole intruded the cockpit, and the impact with the driver's helmeted head produced non-survivable blunt force trauma.
The response to the scene by INDYCAR's Holmatro Safety Team was rapid and decisive, according to the review.
INDYCAR analyzed data from the accident data recorders carried on board each race car involved in the crash, the on-board data acquisition system from teams, timing and scoring data, video, still photographs, physical evidence and eyewitness reports from participants. Third-party experts with Indianapolis-based Wolf Technical Services provided independent assurance that the investigation protocol, evidence examined and reviewed, and the conclusions reached are consistent and appropriate to standard scientific and engineering investigation methods.
Examination of video of the incident demonstrates normal "pack racing" that is common on high-banked ovals. However, there was almost unlimited movement on the track surface under race conditions not previously experienced that is attributed to track geometry beyond banking. Such freedom of movement outside of normal racing grooves not only increased the probability for car-to-car contact, but made it more difficult for drivers to predict the movement of other drivers. As a result, the opportunity for this incident was increased.
While this incident could have occurred at any track at any time, the dynamic of the current car and the overall track geometry at Las Vegas Motor Speedway under race conditions appears to have been one of the contributing factors in this incident.
The 34-car starting field was determined to be acceptable based on factors such as length and width of the racetrack and pit space capability. This incident and its consequences could have occurred with any size starting field at any track.
"INDYCAR's commitment to safety was enhanced by Dan Wheldon's testing throughout 2011 of the new car to be used by INDYCAR in 2012," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "The 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series season ushers in an era of a new race car and the opportunity for continued safety advancements. Dan Wheldon was instrumental in the testing and development of this new car and the safety innovations that it represents. We are thankful for his efforts and commitment to racing."
The 2012 Dallara Automobili chassis enhances safety components such as side intrusion panels and wheel tethers. The cockpit is longer and wider than the decommissioned monocoque, which allows for additional padding underneath and behind the driver. Also, a "floating headrest" works in conjunction with the mandatory FHR (Frontal Head Restraint) attached to the helmet. Driver positioning allows for better sightlines.
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Wheldon, the 2005 IZOD IndyCar Series champion and two-time Indianapolis 500 winner, suffered a non-survivable head injury Oct. 16 in a 15-car crash in Turn 2 of Las Vegas Motor Speedway during the final race of the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series season.
"There are multiple factors that are not uncommon to racing that came together in a way that claimed Dan's life," said Brian Barnhart, President of Operations, INDYCAR. "It is a tragedy. Our thoughts and support will always be with Dan's family."
The accident review revealed that Wheldon's path on the lower portion of the racetrack was blocked by the multi-car crash he was approaching. The No. 77 car became airborne and ultimately impacted a vertical post of the track fencing. The pole intruded the cockpit, and the impact with the driver's helmeted head produced non-survivable blunt force trauma.
The response to the scene by INDYCAR's Holmatro Safety Team was rapid and decisive, according to the review.
INDYCAR analyzed data from the accident data recorders carried on board each race car involved in the crash, the on-board data acquisition system from teams, timing and scoring data, video, still photographs, physical evidence and eyewitness reports from participants. Third-party experts with Indianapolis-based Wolf Technical Services provided independent assurance that the investigation protocol, evidence examined and reviewed, and the conclusions reached are consistent and appropriate to standard scientific and engineering investigation methods.
Examination of video of the incident demonstrates normal "pack racing" that is common on high-banked ovals. However, there was almost unlimited movement on the track surface under race conditions not previously experienced that is attributed to track geometry beyond banking. Such freedom of movement outside of normal racing grooves not only increased the probability for car-to-car contact, but made it more difficult for drivers to predict the movement of other drivers. As a result, the opportunity for this incident was increased.
While this incident could have occurred at any track at any time, the dynamic of the current car and the overall track geometry at Las Vegas Motor Speedway under race conditions appears to have been one of the contributing factors in this incident.
The 34-car starting field was determined to be acceptable based on factors such as length and width of the racetrack and pit space capability. This incident and its consequences could have occurred with any size starting field at any track.
"INDYCAR's commitment to safety was enhanced by Dan Wheldon's testing throughout 2011 of the new car to be used by INDYCAR in 2012," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "The 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series season ushers in an era of a new race car and the opportunity for continued safety advancements. Dan Wheldon was instrumental in the testing and development of this new car and the safety innovations that it represents. We are thankful for his efforts and commitment to racing."
The 2012 Dallara Automobili chassis enhances safety components such as side intrusion panels and wheel tethers. The cockpit is longer and wider than the decommissioned monocoque, which allows for additional padding underneath and behind the driver. Also, a "floating headrest" works in conjunction with the mandatory FHR (Frontal Head Restraint) attached to the helmet. Driver positioning allows for better sightlines.
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Newgarden signs with Fisher Hartman Racing
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (December 7, 2011)-Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing (SFHR) announced today the signing of 20-year old All-American Nashville, TN native, Josef Newgarden, to pilot the No. 67 entry for SFHR in the 2012 IZOD IndyCar ® Series season. Newgarden competed in the Firestone Indy Lights series in 2011, capturing five wins and ten podium finishes, clinching the series points championship with one race remaining in the season.
"First of all, I'd like to thank Andy, Sarah, and Wink for providing me with this opportunity," said Newgarden. "It's a perfect fit. SFHR and myself have a lot of the same qualities, and I'm really looking forward to working with everyone throughout the year. I'm sure we're going to have great chemistry, and I'm excited to get 2012 rolling."
SFHR is currently working out details to finalize Josef's 2012 schedule, but anticipates a full season effort. Newgarden has proven his success on both ovals and street/road courses.
"Wink brought the idea of Josef to our attention and after watching him mid season forward, we knew he would be a perfect fit," said Fisher. "Josef has a great brand and is a true champion. We very much look forward to working with him both on and off track."
Team owner Sarah Fisher also announced today her partnership with businessman Wink Hartman, forming Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing (SFHR).
"I'm very excited to welcome Wink as a partner to SFHR," said Fisher. "Wink has been a part of the team and a personal mentor since 2008, and in this new era of our team and the direction we're going, we're excited to have his leadership."
Hartman was one of the first sponsors on board the No. 67 entry in the 2008 Indy 500 and has been a part of the team ever since.
"I'm excited about the great news for SFHR today," said Hartman. "It shows Sarah's continued growth in selecting Josef to be the driver for the future of the team. We look forward to a great 2012 season with Josef behind the wheel."
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"First of all, I'd like to thank Andy, Sarah, and Wink for providing me with this opportunity," said Newgarden. "It's a perfect fit. SFHR and myself have a lot of the same qualities, and I'm really looking forward to working with everyone throughout the year. I'm sure we're going to have great chemistry, and I'm excited to get 2012 rolling."
SFHR is currently working out details to finalize Josef's 2012 schedule, but anticipates a full season effort. Newgarden has proven his success on both ovals and street/road courses.
"Wink brought the idea of Josef to our attention and after watching him mid season forward, we knew he would be a perfect fit," said Fisher. "Josef has a great brand and is a true champion. We very much look forward to working with him both on and off track."
Team owner Sarah Fisher also announced today her partnership with businessman Wink Hartman, forming Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing (SFHR).
"I'm very excited to welcome Wink as a partner to SFHR," said Fisher. "Wink has been a part of the team and a personal mentor since 2008, and in this new era of our team and the direction we're going, we're excited to have his leadership."
Hartman was one of the first sponsors on board the No. 67 entry in the 2008 Indy 500 and has been a part of the team ever since.
"I'm excited about the great news for SFHR today," said Hartman. "It shows Sarah's continued growth in selecting Josef to be the driver for the future of the team. We look forward to a great 2012 season with Josef behind the wheel."
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