IndyCar: Friday Morning Update from the Detroit Grand Prix

Good morning from the streets of downtown Detroit for the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear.  The NTT INDYCAR Series and the INDY NXT will be racing around the world headquarters for GM at the Renaissance Center in the heart of this city known for the “Big Three” auto manufacturers, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis North America (Chrysler).

The 1.7-mile, nine-turn temporary street course will be a challenge for all drivers this weekend because it has tight corners.  Most drivers are comparing it to Nashville, which we know has not proven to be the smoothest racing, with multiple crashes in the first two races in 2021 and 2022.

AR1 spoke with Scott McLaughlin about his thoughts going into the weekend.

“I have done some simulator stuff and I have gone around the track on a bike.  I really like the track.  I think it is going to be really cool.  A lot of character. ”

“I mean, it is tight in places.  But we always say that going to different street circuits, “Oh it is really tight out there.”  And then we get out there and it is not that bad.  I am very excited for the new opportunity for a new track, which I really enjoy.”

“This track absolutely has got Nashville vibs.  Who knows how this will go.  Everyone worried because the race in Nashville is always crazy. But it is a popular race.  So hopefully Detroit is as popular with the fans.”

“The split pit lane will be different.  And everyone does not like change.   I think it will be a little bit interesting, funneling into the pit lane.  I am glad there is no wall in the middle so you are able to see and you can half gauge what you are doing.”

“Ultimately, we are race drivers and merging is not our strong suit.  It is part of the spectacle.  You just have to get on with it.”

Today’s schedule for the NTT INDYCAR Series is practice #1 at 3 pm ET for 90 minutes, which can be watched on Peacock.

Lucille Dust reporting live from Detroit