Via INDYCAR.com
Monday, April 6
SCHEDULE UPDATE FROM INDYCAR
Doubleheaders at Iowa, Laguna Seca, Third Event at IMS
Highlight Updated INDYCAR Calendar
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES announced several calendar updates today following the cancellation of the Detroit Grand Prix due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Two previously scheduled events will become doubleheaders along with the addition of a third weekend of racing at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
With these additions, there are 15 races on the 2020 INDYCAR calendar, an increase of one event from the 14 races announced March 26.
"We're committed to bringing fans as much on-track action as possible," Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles said. "Our updated schedule features additional racing at fan-favorite venues and adds to the total number of events on our calendar. The COVID-19 situation continues to be dynamic and challenging for everyone, so we have developed contingency plans which will allow us to respond to changing conditions. Our goal is to preserve as much racing competition as possible while prioritizing the health and safety of our participants and spectators."
INDYCAR's established events at Iowa Speedway and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will become doubleheaders. The Iowa 300 event weekend will add a race Friday, July 17 along with the previously scheduled race Saturday, July 18. The Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey event weekend will now feature a race Saturday, Sept. 19 in addition to the previously scheduled race Sunday, Sept. 20.
Race fans also will be treated to a third INDYCAR event at the Racing Capital of the World, with the INDYCAR Harvest GP on the IMS road course taking place Saturday, Oct. 3. This event is in addition to the GMR Grand Prix, already scheduled for Saturday, July 4, and the 104th Running of the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, Aug. 23.
"Like our fans, we're disappointed we won't be racing in Detroit this year," Miles said. "However, we're excited to return to Belle Isle in 2021 and know we'll put on a great show for everyone when we do. We also appreciate the flexibility and support of our event promoters at Iowa Speedway and Laguna Seca, who have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to host doubleheaders."
An updated listing of green flag times and an NBC Sports broadcast schedule will be announced in the near future.
Statement from Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear
Detroit Grand Pix organizers announced today that the 2020 Grand Prix, originally scheduled for May 29-31 at Belle Isle Park, has been canceled due to the global COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic.
As a result of the current public health restrictions and mandates, Grand Prix officials determined it was not possible to host the event at the end of May in order to help protect the health, safety and well-being of the spectators, partners, volunteers, employees and event participants at the Detroit Grand Prix.
Over the last several weeks, organizers have been working with local authorities, the City of Detroit, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Belle Isle Conservancy, and the racing series competing at the Grand Prix to try and secure an alternate date for the event on Belle Isle in 2020. Unfortunately, due to logistical and scheduling challenges, no suitable dates were available to host the event on Belle Isle.
"The Grand Prix is a very important event for Belle Isle Park, the City of Detroit, the City of Windsor and all of southeast Michigan and it is certainly disappointing that it won't take place this year," said Bud Denker, Chairman of the Detroit Grand Prix. "We looked at every possible scenario to reschedule the Grand Prix, but all of them would have been too disruptive to the hundreds of fall events that will take place on Belle Isle. Some events, like weddings, family reunions and festivals, have been scheduled a year in advance and it would not be right to alter anyone's plans. We look forward to the Grand Prix returning in 2021 to continue our mission of revitalizing Belle Isle Park and providing significant support to the Belle Isle Conservancy, while helping to inject millions of dollars in economic benefit to our cities and our region."
Grand Prix ticketholders will be contacted in the near future regarding their 2020 ticket purchases.
The Detroit Grand Prix team appreciates the support and understanding of its fans, partners, volunteers and participants. Organizers look forward to hosting a world-class Detroit Grand Prix on Belle Isle Park next summer, June 4-6, 2021.
Statement from Iowa Speedway
NTT INDYCAR SERIES fans will get what they have asked for at Iowa Speedway for some time: the return of a true night race - and they'll get it twice. INDYCAR and speedway officials announced today a historic weekend in July — two NTT INDYCAR SERIES races taking place over the course of a single weekend.
"Our commitment to our guests, partners and community will remain strong as we deliver a marquee bucket-list weekend," Iowa Speedway President David Hyatt said. "Our track provides some of the best short track racing in the country, making this a can't-miss weekend for both open wheel and stock car fans."
The weekend schedule will feature INDYCAR and the ARCA Menards Series. The stars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES will race wheel-to-wheel on Friday, July 17 followed by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES Iowa 300 on Saturday, July 18. The ARCA Menards Series Shore Lunch 150 will now move to Saturday afternoon as a cornerstone race in the inaugural ARCA "Sioux Chief Showdown," a 10-race series set to attract the top teams in the ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East and ARCA Menards Series West.
Single race and event weekend tickets are on sale now. Fans can purchase tickets, access additional information and ask questions by visiting IowaSpeedway.com or calling 866.787.8946. Information will be updated as it becomes available.
Statement from WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey just became more intense in the NTT IndyCar Series championship points battle with today's announcement that WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will host a second race during the Sept. 18-20 weekend. The additional race will be held Saturday, Sept. 19, followed by the regularly scheduled race on Sunday, Sept. 20.
"Given all the race rescheduling efforts due to the COVID-19 crisis, IndyCar executives contacted Dewayne Woods with the County of Monterey and asked if we would be willing to conduct back-to-back races over the Sept. 18-20 weekend," explains John Narigi, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. "We enthusiastically said 'yes, of course.'"
The addition of a second race with its accompanying corporate hospitality and the international television it brings will be a welcomed addition to Monterey County businesses that have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are energized with the prospect of significantly contributing to the revival of Monterey County," Narigi says. "We also look forward to providing ticket holders who will be visiting with even greater value now that there will be even more on-track intensity with back-to-back races."
Racing fans, sponsors and drivers enjoyed the return of IndyCar to Monterey and the Corkscrew last year where a young Colton Herta held off a charging Will Power for the checkered and his second victory of his rookie season. Herta averaged a speed of 106.057 mph on the 2.238-mile road course.
Despite Herta collecting the win as well as bonus points for the pole, leading a lap and leading the most laps, it was not enough for him to overtake Chip Ganassi Racing's Felix Rosenqvist for the NTT IndyCar Series Rookie-of-the-Year honors. Rosenqvist, a 28-year-old Swede, made a strong run after starting 14th to finish fifth and hold off Herta for the rookie award.
Between 1983 and 2004, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca was the site of some of Indy car racing's most memorable moments, including Alex Zanardi executing "The Pass" on Bryan Herta on the final lap of the 1996 finale, Mario Andretti's emotional retirement in 1994, and Bobby Rahal's four consecutive wins from 1984 to 1987.
Full ticket packages ranging from single-day tickets to VIP hospitality suites and camping are available for the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey, Sept. 18-20. Visit WeatherTechRaceway.com or call the Tickets and Accommodations office at 831-242-8200.
Thursday, May 7
SCHEDULE UPDATE FROM INDYCAR
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Season Kicks Off June 6 at Texas Motor Speedway
The 2020 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season will begin Saturday, June 6 with the Genesys 300 at Texas Motor Speedway. INDYCAR's stars will take the green flag at 8:45 p.m. (ET), with broadcast coverage provided by NBC Sports via NBCSN.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, INDYCAR will run a condensed schedule with practice, qualifying and the race taking place on the same day. The event also will be conducted without fans in attendance. This will be the 24th consecutive year in which INDYCAR has raced at the 1.5-mile oval in Fort Worth, Texas.
"We're excited and ready to kick off the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season at Texas Motor Speedway," INDYCAR President Jay Frye said. "We've worked closely with Eddie Gossage, the entire TMS team and public health officials on a plan of action that will ensure the safety of our event participants alongside an exciting return to competition for our drivers, teams and viewers tuning in from around the world."
"America needs live sports and they are not going to believe what they see when the Genesys 300 storms into their living rooms on TV from Texas," said Eddie Gossage, president and general manager of Texas Motor Speedway. "One of the world's greatest sporting events, the Indy 500, has been postponed until August by coronavirus, so all of that pent-up energy, anticipation, frustrations and anxiety will be pounding through the drivers' nervous systems. Typically, the Genesys 300 results in a 220-mph photo finish."
Other steps to protect the wellbeing of participants have been identified through close consultation with TMS and public health officials. These include:
- Strict access guidelines limiting the number of personnel on site
- A health screening system administered to all participants
- PPE equipment provided to everyone entering the facility, along with guidelines on usage
- Social distancing protocols in place and carefully maintained
- Revised competition layout to increase distancing
To accommodate the one-day schedule, the length for the race at Texas Motor Speedway has been adjusted to 200 laps rather than the previously announced 248 laps. The full on-track schedule for the Genesys 300:
- NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice: 1:30-3:30 p.m. (ET)
- NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifications: 5 p.m. (ET)
- Genesys 300 at Texas Motor Speedway: 8:45 p.m. (ET)
The remainder of the updated, 15-race INDYCAR calendar for 2020, announced April 6, remains on schedule for competition.
Wednesday, May 13
Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg set for October 25 as 2020 Season Finale
The 2020 NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion will be crowned Sunday, Oct. 25 at the rescheduled Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The new date for the series finale was confirmed today by officials from INDYCAR, Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC (GSSP) and the City of St. Petersburg.
This will be the 16th consecutive year that an INDYCAR event will take place on the streets of beautiful St. Petersburg, as the exciting race weekend has become a fan favorite on the annual schedule and a fixture in the region. The original date for the event, Sunday, March 15, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The streets of St. Petersburg will make for a fitting and action-packed finale in a venue and city that our entire INDYCAR community holds dear," Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles said. "We extend our thanks and gratitude to Mayor Kriseman, Green Savoree and Firestone for working with us to find a new date for the event. It's going to be a fantastic weekend of INDYCAR action, and I know our drivers will have race day in St. Pete circled on their calendars."
This will be the first time the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will serve as the exciting series finale, as the event traditionally has started the season.
"The City of St. Petersburg stands ready to welcome back the fans of INDYCAR, drivers, teams and sponsors in October," said City of St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman. "I want to thank our partners at Green Savoree Racing Promotions for believing in this race and giving the residents of the Sunshine City something to look forward to. I am confident that the race will occur in a manner that puts public health at the forefront."
Said Lisa Boggs, director of motorsports, Bridgestone Americas, parent company of event sponsor Firestone: "We greatly appreciate the efforts of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, INDYCAR, Mayor Kriseman and the City of St. Petersburg to find a new date for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Coming back to the streets of St. Pete to close the 2020 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season is a great way to thank the incredible fans in this area for their support. While we couldn't kick off the season with them as planned, we now look forward to crowning the 2020 INDYCAR champion together in October."
Previously purchased tickets to the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will be valid on the corresponding days of the postponed event. Ticket purchasers on file will receive instructions via email. Additional event information and customer FAQs will be posted at gpstpete.com.
"Having a rescheduled date for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is a very positive development," said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of GSSP, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. "This could only happen because of our partners' commitment and support at City of St. Petersburg, INDYCAR and Firestone. We hope this offers both Floridians and our race fans something to look forward to later this year as we navigate through these unprecedented times for us all."
Said Kevin Savoree, co-owner, president and COO of GSSP: "Thank you to our fans for their patience and understanding as we've worked through this process with Mayor Kriseman, City Council, the City of St. Petersburg's event team, INDYCAR and Firestone. It's been a terrific team effort by all, and we appreciate the opportunity to host the event again this fall in one of the most fantastic settings in downtown St. Petersburg."
The rest of the updated INDYCAR calendar for 2020 remains on schedule for competition. The season starts Saturday night, June 6 with the Genesys 300 at Texas Motor Speedway.
Thursday, May 21
INDYCAR Announces Updated 2020 Series Schedule
An updated 2020 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule was released today, displaying calendar adjustments implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Genesys 300 at Texas Motor Speedway remains the season opener with a night race on the 1.5-mile oval Saturday, June 6. The next race on the INDYCAR calendar will be the GMR Grand Prix on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course Saturday, July 4.
"Our teams and athletes are ready to get back on track and will deliver world-class action at Texas Motor Speedway and the Racing Capital of the World," Penske Entertainment Corp. President & CEO Mark Miles said. "We appreciate the opportunity to begin our season during these unprecedented times, and I'm confident we'll put on a great show."
The REV Group Grand Prix at Road America has been rescheduled from June 21 to July 11-12, becoming a double-header with championship points races Saturday and Sunday on the iconic, 4-mile road course.
Two events have been canceled for 2020 due to local restrictions surrounding the pandemic: the Indy Richmond 300 on Saturday, June 27 at Richmond Raceway and the Honda Indy Toronto on Sunday, July 12 on the streets of Toronto.
The season finale will be the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, Oct. 25, a new date recently announced after the originally scheduled season opener March 15 in St. Pete was postponed due to the global health crisis.
Monday, July 27
INDYCAR Announces 2020 Series Schedule Update
14-Race Calendar Highlighted by Additional Doubleheaders
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES released an updated 2020 race calendar today featuring several modifications.
Three events already scheduled on the series calendar will now become doubleheader weekends, including INDYCAR's upcoming race weekend at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Prior to the originally scheduled Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio on Sunday, Aug. 9, the stars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES will square off in another championship-points paying event Saturday, Aug. 8.
In addition, the race weekends at World Wide Technology Raceway in August and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in October will become doubleheader weekends. WWTR will feature races Saturday, Aug. 29 and Sunday, Aug. 30. IMS will add a road course race Friday, Oct. 2 before the already scheduled event Saturday, Oct. 3.
"Our race fans have loved the exciting doubleheader action of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES this year at Road America and Iowa Speedway," Penske Entertainment Corp. President & CEO Mark Miles said. "We look forward to giving them even more world-class entertainment this season at three of the most exciting racetracks on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar."
INDYCAR's race at Portland International Raceway and doubleheader weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca have been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The cancellation of both event weekends was a mutual decision between the series and promoters following close consultation and monitoring of the local situation. The series looks forward to returning to both venues in 2021.
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES remains on track to run 14 races in the 2020 season. The full, updated schedule can be found at INDYCAR.com/Schedule.
Statement from the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Will Be Open To Fans and now features an INDYCAR Doubleheader
59th Season of Racing Continues in Accordance with Approved COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols Including Statewide Mask Mandate
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course will open its gates to spectators again on a limited basis for The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio on Aug. 7-9. The event is now a doubleheader weekend for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES with 75-lap races on both Saturday, Aug. 8, and Sunday, Aug. 9, on the 2.258-mile, 13-turn road course in Lexington, Ohio.
The event will operate under the "Responsible RestartOhio" guidelines for COVID-19 after receiving approval from the local health department for limited spectator attendance. Tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis. Customers are encouraged to purchase online in advance at midohio.com. Motorhome and tent camping will also be permitted during the event. The grandstands, paddock and pits will not be open to spectators to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
In accordance with Ohio's statewide mask mandate in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, spectators are required to wear facial coverings while on property. They will also be subject to a temperature check and health screening when entering the facility. Fans should visit midohio.com/covid19 for more information on the essential health and safety protocols. All spectators will enter the facility through Gate 1. Additional answers to common fan questions can be found at midohio.com/covid19faq as well as information for those spectators who had purchased grandstand seats, paddock and pit passes previously.
"Our team greatly appreciates the guidance and leadership of Morrow County Health Commissioner Stephanie Bragg working through the details with us on opening this event to a limited amount of spectators," said Craig Rust, president of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. "It was great to have our fans out for the Vintage Grand Prix of Mid-Ohio in late June which utilized best practices for COVID-19 protocols, and we're grateful that race weekend went well. The cooperation of following all the COVID-19 protocols by everyone in attendance will be important for a successful Honda Indy 200 event."
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES will run its 36th and 37th races in its history at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. The green flag will drop at 2:45 p.m. EDT on Saturday, Aug. 8, and then at 1:45 p.m. EDT on Sunday, Aug. 9. The weekend schedule will also feature doubleheader races for the Indy Pro 2000 Championship Presented by Cooper Tires and tripleheader events for the Cooper Tires UF2000 Championship, both part of the Road to Indy Presented by Cooper Tires development ladder for open-wheel racing's rising stars. The Global Mazda MX-5 Cup will also hold two races across the weekend.
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course offers one of the best family values in all of live sports and entertainment. Children 12 and under always receive free general admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Visit midohio.com for more information, and follow its Facebook page @MidOhioSportsCarCourse, Twitter @Mid_Ohio or Instagram @officialmidohio for the latest news.
Statement from World Wide Technologies Raceway
INDYCAR to race twice at World Wide Technology Raceway next month
Twin 200-lap NTT INDYCAR SERIES races in St. Louis market on August 29 and 30
World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, today announced yet another significant change to its August 29-30 Bommarito Automotive Group 500 Weekend following schedule alterations for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. A second NTT INDYCAR SERIES race has been added to WWTR's INDYCAR Weekend.
- The first INDYCAR race will be held on Saturday, August 29, at 2 p.m. Central. The second INDYCAR race of the weekend will take place on Sunday, August 30, at 2 p.m. Central.
- The weekend will be known as the Bommarito Automotive Group Race to MEGA Savings Weekend. The Bommarito Automotive Group will receive title sponsorship to both nationally-televised INDYCAR races.
- Both races will consist of 200 laps - a combined total of 500 miles around the challenging 1.25-mile oval.
- INDYCAR qualifying will take place on Saturday, August 29, at 11:30 a.m. The first of two laps will be used to qualify the car for the first 200, and the second lap will be used to set the field for the second 200.
- Saturday's INDYCAR race will be followed by the ARCA Menards Series event.
- On Sunday, the INDYCAR race will be preceded by the NASCAR Truck Series event at 11 a.m.
"World Wide Technology Raceway has been committed to the NTT IndyCar Series since its return to our track in 2017," said Curtis Francois, owner and CEO of WWTR. "Our goal always has been to be a great partner with INDYCAR while working with the sponsors, teams and drivers to provide a safe, yet comfortable, entertainment experience for our tremendous fans. Hosting two INDYCAR races in one weekend is a dream for the St. Louis racing community. Despite the unprecedented challenges we all face, it will enable us to provide a historic event for our city in a safe environment. Safe social interaction is at the core of our event and we are doing everything possible to make sure our fans have a worry-free experience.
'We appreciate the various stakeholders, especially the Bommarito Automotive Group, who have rallied together for what should be an epic weekend of racing. The Bommarito Automotive Group's support of the sport of INDYCAR racing has been tremendous since coming on board as a sponsor in January of 2017. This is a tremendous win to recognize them for their efforts with not one, but two nationally-televised races for their dedication to motorsports. This will be the most historic event ever held at this venue."
A revised schedule, which will include the two INDYCAR races, the NASCAR Truck Series race, ARCA Menards Series event and Open Wheel Icons/Vintage Indy Registry activity will be released soon.
World Wide Technology Raceway has been actively involved with some of motorsports' leading sanctioning groups to develop standards for conducting live spectator events during the pandemic. In addition, track officials have worked with local, regional and state officials to coordinate reopening plans that have benefitted tracks throughout the industry.
A few items to note regarding the event:
- Due to limited seating capacity - which may change leading up to the event - fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. Most likely the venue will utilize most available seating based on the adjusted seat-distancing diagrams.
- The Wallace Grandstand in Turns 1 and 2 will be open on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30, to provide additional distancing and comfort for fans. The Wallace Grandstand features additional, permanent restroom facilities and a separate entry point from other seating areas.
- The WWTR ticket staff has undertaken extensive seat model research and will be working with same-household/family groups to provide safe distancing between parties.
- Fans will be required to have masks for entry into the venue. Attendees are strongly recommended to practice proper health recommendations prescribed by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Masks will be required while in common areas such as restrooms, midways and concession areas or anytime six (6) feet of distancing cannot be maintained.
- Track personnel will conduct temperature screening at all entry points. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will be asked to visit with on-site medical staff prior to entry into the venue.
- All food service locations will follow State of Illinois recommendations for outdoor dining. The concession area footprint will be changed to provide more distance between point-of-sale locations to enable attendees to spread out and avoid lines. Remote ordering and pick-up of food items will be available on race day. Most foods will be wrapped.
- Increased sanitation practices will be implemented before, during and after each event. Areas that will be cleaned throughout the event include restrooms, handrails, all entrances to permanent structures, public furniture and seating areas, all rooms prior to and immediately after use, offices and kitchen areas. Our janitorial team adheres to the recommendations set forth in the U.S. EPA's Emerging Pathogen Policy regarding cleaning disinfectants.
- Print-at-home, paperless ticket transactions are preferred. This will eliminate the need to stand in line to purchase tickets and it enables us to offer contact-free entry, which will be as simple as point-and- click.
- Clearly-marked entry and exit pathways will be in place to maintain a clearer flow in and out of the venue. Grandstand walkways will feature directional arrows.
- Permanent restrooms will have contact-free entry. All permanent restrooms will be well stocked with soap and a restroom attendant to ensure maximum cleanliness.
- Temporary restrooms will be placed throughout the venue with hand washing and/or sanitizing stations adjacent to each bank of restrooms.
- Hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the facility. These stations are mobile, which will allow us to deploy them based on event schedules and traffic patterns.
- Our team has been working on ways to host events properly and safely during this pandemic. All WWTR security, fire and safety, EMT and paramedic personnel have guidelines from local, regional and state public health agencies on how to recognize possible symptoms and the necessary steps to mitigate exposure to others.
- We are asking our customers who feel ill or believe they may be at risk to please stay home. Our track services staff will work with you on the proper steps to make sure you can come back and visit us when you are ready.
- Similar to the other sports and entertainment venues in the area - coupled with efforts to not rummage through personal belongings - we are moving to clear (transparent) bags (aside from coolers) for this event. It will be the fan's responsibility to open their own coolers for inspection, but the transparent bags will help expedite entry and limit exposure during bag check.
In an effort to accommodate fans who previously purchased tickets and need seating adjustments, the following ticketing schedule will take place:
- Currently: Checkered Flag, Red Reserved and Wallace Grandstand Weekend ticket packages are on sale at early-bird pricing. Early bird pricing ends July 26.
- July 27-August 2: Single-day Checkered Flag, Red Reserved and Wallace Grandstand tickets at early-bird pricing.
- August 3-28: Checkered Flag, Red Reserved, Wallace Grandstand and Gray Level seating (weekend or single-day) on sale at advance price.
- August 29-30: Gate pricing on all remaining available tickets.
For additional information on World Wide Technology Raceway, please call (618) 215-8888 or visit www.WWTRaceway.com. Follow WWTR on Facebook, Parler, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram.
Statement from WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey Canceled Due to Continuing COVID-19 Restrictions
NTT INDYCAR SERIES and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to Extend Agreement
Due to California's increasing restrictions on public gatherings and sporting events to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES jointly announce the cancellation of the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey IndyCar doubleheader September 18-20.
"It is clear that spectators, hospitality guests and sponsors would not be permissible under current state guidelines, and the tight restrictions placed on teams would make the race weekend not viable for neither Monterey nor IndyCar," said John Narigi, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. "We were really looking forward to INDYCAR's return to our community. This is a huge disappointment, but out of the control of everyone involved.
"We were geared up. A very dedicated group of volunteers, service organizations, and experienced associates many of whom orchestrated the 2019 INDYCAR race were ready. It truly is unfortunate for the teams, fans and our community, but we need to remain vigilant for the health, safety and well-being of everyone who enters Laguna Seca Recreation Area," Narigi added.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and INDYCAR management have been discussing a contract extension that would annually return the high-powered NTT INDYCAR SERIES to the iconic circuit. The original agreement is set to end after the 2021 race, but all involved parties agree Monterey is the perfect venue and destination for fans, sponsors and teams to enjoy and want to ensure it remains on future INDYCAR seasons.
"INDYCAR loves racing in Monterey County and everyone wishes this year's circumstances were different," Penske Entertainment Corp. President & CEO Mark Miles said. "The leadership team behind the Grand Prix of Monterey has been a strong partner throughout this process and we've appreciated their diligence and commitment to the event and our series. Fans can rest assured we look forward to returning in 2021."
Ticket and camping purchasers will automatically be credited with a price protection for the 2021 race weekend. Or ticket purchasers may request a full refund by contacting the Ticket and Accommodations Office at tickets@laguna-seca.com.
Saturday, August 1
The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Postponed to Later In 2020
LEXINGTON, Ohio (August 1, 2020) - INDYCAR and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course have agreed to postpone The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio scheduled for Aug. 7-9 until a date to be determined in September or October. This decision was made through communication with local health officials given the current environment.
Our team continues to work with all of our partners and our local government to identify a date later this year when we can host The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio. More information will be forthcoming as it becomes available. Visit midohio.com for ongoing updates.
We appreciate the patience and understanding of our fans as we navigate this postponement.
Tuesday, August 4
Update From The Indianapolis Motor Speedway
INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, August 4) The Indianapolis Motor Speedway today issued the following statement:
"It is with great regret that we announce the 104th running of the Indianapolis 500 will take place on August 23 without fans. This tough decision was made following careful consideration and extensive consultation with state and city leadership.
As dedicated as we were to running the race this year with 25 percent attendance at our large outdoor facility, even with meaningful and careful precautions implemented by the city and state, the COVID-19 trends in Marion County and Indiana have worsened. Since our June 26 announcement, the number of cases in Marion County has tripled while the positivity rate has doubled. We said from the beginning of the pandemic we would put the health and safety of our community first, and while hosting spectators at a limited capacity with our robust plan in place was appropriate in late June, it is not the right path forward based on the current environment.
We encourage Hoosiers to continue making smart decisions and following the advice of our public health officials so we can help get Indiana back on track.
Penske Corporation made a long-term investment to be the steward of this legendary facility. While we were very excited to showcase the investments and enhancements we have made in the guest experience, we know we have reached the right decision. As much as Roger Penske and everyone associated with the 500 wanted to race with fans this year, we ultimately reached this conclusion in partnership with the state of Indiana and city of Indianapolis.
Our commitment to the Speedway is unwavering and we will continue to invest in the Racing Capital of the World. We encourage everyone to watch this year's race on NBC and we look forward to welcoming our loyal fans back to The Greatest Spectacle in Racing on May 30th of 2021."
Further Information from IMS
- All on-track activity during the month of August, including practice and qualifications, will be closed to the general public.
- Individuals who still have tickets to this year's Indy 500 will be credited for the 2021 Indianapolis 500 and will retain their seniority and their originally assigned seats.
- The first Indy 500 practice will take place on Wednesday, August 12 with a full schedule available on IMS.com.
- All of the action from IMS can be viewed via NBC Sports Gold, NBCSN or NBC. Visit IMS.com or INDYCAR.com for a comprehensive streaming and broadcast schedule.
- The 104th running of the Indy 500 will take place Sunday, August 23 with national coverage beginning on NBC at 1 p.m. ET.
- Local Central Indiana coverage of the race will be available on NBC affiliate WTHR.
- Broadcast coverage of Qualifications on Saturday, Aug. 15 begins on NBC at 3 p.m. ET and switches to NBCSN at 6 p.m. ET.
- Sunday, Aug. 16 broadcast coverage of Pole Day begins on NBC at 1 p.m. ET.
Saturday, September 5
The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Doubleheader Weekend Rescheduled for September 12-13
"The NTT INDYCAR SERIES will run at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course next weekend, with double-header races scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13. We look forward to an exciting weekend of racing action at an excellent venue.
Green Savoree Racing Promotions will contact customers soon with guidance regarding event attendance."
Saturday's race will be broadcast on NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) starting at 4:30 p.m. Sunday's race will be broadcast on NBC beginning 1 p.m.
Friday, September 18
Fans Welcome at IMS for INDYCAR Harvest GP Weekend presented by GMR
IMS Venue Enhancements on Display as INDYCAR Title Race Reaches Exciting Final Stretch
INDIANAPOLIS, Friday, Sept. 18, 2020 - For the first time in 2020, Indianapolis Motor Speedway will welcome fans to the Racing Capital of the World for the INDYCAR Harvest GP presented by GMR weekend. Up to 10,000 spectators can be in the grandstands each day of racing action Oct. 1-4, per approval from the Marion County Public Health Department.
Tickets are available now via IMS.com and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
The massive facility, which holds more than 300,000 people, will provide two spectator zones with up to 5,000 fans in each. The zones will be located in Turns 1 and 4 of the oval, offering strong sightlines of the road course. Strict health and safety rules will be in place, including the following:
- Face coverings must be worn throughout the property at all times;
- All fans will receive temperature screenings before gate entry;
- Grandstand seats will be marked for distancing;
- Attendees must use pre-assigned gates and remain in their designated zones.
Global Medical Response, the world leader in compassionate, quality emergency medical and patient relocation services, will be the presenting sponsor of the penultimate weekend of INDYCAR racing this season.
"We can't wait to see fans come through our gates for the first time in 2020," IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. "They'll be greeted by a vastly improved facility, featuring significant upgrades to the spectator experience. We're also extremely grateful to have a presenting sponsor with the expertise and resources of GMR as we look to implement our detailed and comprehensive health and safety plan."
The plan, which includes each attendee receiving a mask and a bottle of hand sanitizer upon entering the track, was developed in consultation with state and local health officials.
This event weekend is highlighted by an NTT INDYCAR SERIES doubleheader, with races Friday, Oct. 2 and Saturday, Oct. 3. It will be the penultimate event of the series' season as the field pursues the champion's prestigious Astor Challenge Cup to be awarded Sunday, Oct. 25 at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
The INDYCAR Harvest GP will pay tribute to a storied IMS event, the Harvest Classic in September 1916. The Harvest Classic was the only racing event held outside of May at IMS from 1911 through 1993. The event featured three races, all won by legendary driver Johnny Aitken.
Fans also will see a host of facility improvements during the event weekend, including more than 30 new LED video boards, refreshed concession stands and restrooms, and 5G wireless connectivity throughout the facility.
The first race will air at 3:30 p.m. (ET) Friday, Oct. 2 on the USA Network. NBC will broadcast the second race at 2:30 p.m. (ET) Saturday, Oct. 3, with WTHR-13 airing the action live in Central Indiana.
Also racing that weekend will be the first pairing of two major sports car series -- the Intercontinental GT Challenge Powered by Pirelli and its North American counterpart, GT World Challenge America Powered by AWS. Former Indianapolis 500 pole winner Ryan Briscoe is among the drivers in the Indianapolis 8 Hour event held Sunday, Oct. 4.
The event also will showcase drivers in SRO America's Pirelli GT4 America, GT Sports Club America and the TC America series.
The full on-track schedule is available at IMS.com.