Tag: Mazda

Race Day at Pocono- Eye on the Weather

thepitwindow

Photo: Tony Kanaan was fastest in yesterday’s only practice. He was 5th on the No Tow list. Photo: Kyle McInnes

Good morning. It’s race day at Pocono Raceway. The ABC Supply 500 has a scheduled green flag of around 2:45, weather permitting. The last forecast I heard was for a mid morning shower with the race starting on time. Rain is possible between 4 and 5 pm. We may get a shortened race which would not be good for the championship contenders.

Check in with @Indycar_Wxman on Twitter for the latest weather. I will provide updates with links to his account as I receive them.  I will also be in contact with fans at the track for on site real time information.

I’m not sure what to expect this afternoon, but from yesterday’s practice session it looks like pit strategy and track position may be key. I anticipate no more than three yellow flags. Fuel mileage will be critical. Hondas should have the advantage there.

Coverage begins on NBCSN at 2pm Eastern. No word yet on possibly moving up the start time.

Notes

Curious information that Pocono wants the race to return, but Indycar has not responded. I don’t think the series is in a position yet to turn away a track that wants them. It wasn’t too long that when a potential track was mentioned, the line was the track has to want Indycar first. Here’s a track that wants a race. I would like to know why Indycar doesn’t want to return.

Indications are strong that Richmond will be on the schedule next year. I don’t see why it can’t be an addition instead of a replacement.

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Interesting article by Chris De Harde in @Indystar about Colton Herta receiving multiple offers from different series. I hope he remains in Indycar. I thought it was pretty much a given that he would move to a fifth Andretti car.

I will be back with a weather update when I have one. i hope I don’t need to be. Look for my Quick thoughts after the race and a full race report here tomorrow.

Bulletin: Mazda Ends Partnership with Andersen Promotions and Road to Indy

thepitwindow

Just announced: Mazda has ended its nine year association with Andersen Promotions, promoter of the Road to Indy which sanctions USF2000, Pro Mazda, and Indy Lights.

A statement from John Doonan, Director of Mazda Motorsports, said it was time for Mazda to focus its “resources on other areas of our motorsports footprint.” Mazda will continue its association with Andersen Promotions through the Battery Tender Global MX-5 Cup series.

Dan Andersen thanked Mazda for their participation and said his company is committed to maintaining the ladder structure currently in place.

” We are currently in discussions with several potential companies as we actively pursue a new partner.”

I have no doubt Dan Andersen can find a new partner. I have no idea which companies he is talking with. I doubt if Honda or Chevy are involved. Could it be someone who is also interested in being a third OEM for Indycar? Possibly but not likely. A manufacturer involved in both series would give the appearance of having an advantage with the information gained in the Road to Indy program.

Mazda has been a great partner. I hope the next engine partner will further the program and help strengthen Indy Lights.

I will have more as this story develops.