Today’s schedule: Times Eastern
1 PM Warmup FS1
5:30 PM FOX on Air
5:57 PM Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
Qualifying produced an interesting starting grid which should make for a good race today. The polesitter wins less than 20% of the time4 at Long Beach. Since Kyle Kirkwood won from pole in 2025, Felix Rosenqvist’s chances are somewhat diminished. I think the winner comes from the first two rows.
From last night:
Things to watch for:
Remembering Jim Michaelian
Take a moment before the race to remember Jim Michaelian, who helped found the Long Beach event and guided it to the prestigious spot it holds on the IndyCar schedule as one the series’ Crown Jewels.
Kirkwood vs. Palou
If the pair is not contending for the win, keep an eye on where they are. Kirkwood leads the points by just 2, so where this duo finishes will determine the leader heading the IMS road course race in 20 days.
Another Charge for Lundgaard?
Lundgaard has not qualified particularly well this season, but he has made his way into the top 10 by the end of the day. From 1th on the grid, a top 5 result is very likely. He is my race sleeper.
Pato Vindication Tour
Pato O’Ward used very blunt terms to describe h at Barber, and he seems to be on a mission to avenge an embarrassing showing. From his front row spot, I give him the nod to park in Victory Lane today.
Pit Strategy
The race is very likely to be a three stop event, barring a mid-first stint yellow. The requirement to use two sets of the alternate tire could dictate the amount of pit visits.
Notes
Word I’m hearing is that A. J. Foyt Racing will be home for the 33rd entry for the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500. Katherine Legge will drive the entry. Number and sponsor will probably be announced next week.
The Pit Window by Mike Silver 