IMS pays tribute to Jim Irsay

Along with Peyton Manning speaking during Halftime during Jim Irsay's induction into the Colts Ring of Honor Ceremonies.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) recently put up a tribute to Jim Irsay on its scoring pylon, the night before their season opener. It has Indianapolis Colts on one side and FOR THE BOSS on the other side with Irsay's signature on top.

 

As the gesture apparently brought good Mojo to the Indianapolis Colts, winning their September 7th season opener at Home 33-8 vs. the Miami Dolphins. Giving the Colts a record of 1-0, before reality sets in…

 

Reportedly Head Coach Shane Steichen handed out three Game balls following the victory, one each to each of Irsay’s daughters; Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson. With Casey being married to Quattro’, aka Anthony Joseph Foyt IV. 

F1: A Different Shade of Red at Monza

And Nah, we’re Not talkin’ about 50 Shades of Red…

 

Uncharacteristically, I got up bright ‘n early for the live airing of the Italian Grand Prix from Monza. Musing to myself over how I couldn’t even remember the last time I’d “watched”, Err listened to a Grand Prix? As I think it was the Mighty Spa’, aka Spa-Francorchamps? But does it really matter?

 

Perhaps I’m being cynical here? But I also found it amusing how la Scuderia, nee Ferrari was running another special tribute livery scheme at what’s called the Temple of Speed.

 

Although I thought it was cool that Ferrari was running a “One-off” tribute motif wrap celebrating the 50th anniversary of Niki Lauda’s 1975 Formula 1 championship. With this year’s SF-25chassis mimicking the correct shade of  rosso. The Blanco (white) piping and engine cover, and the silver, metallic (aluminum) rear wing that the 312T sported; per-carbon fibre.

 

Along with the car numbers in Old School roundels and the driver’s names in cursive, plus special wheels, albeit I don’t know if this was just another paint change or what? Whilst the drivers will wear retro overalls, with Sir Lewis’s helmet adorning Lauda’s name. Along with the team also wearing retro “Kit” during the weekend…

 

As Rega’, aka Clay Regazoni  won the Italian Grand Prix with Lauda finishing third fifty years ago at Autodromo Nacional Monza.  Clinching both the F1 Constructors and Drivers titles for Scuderia Ferrari for the first time in eleven years, to the ecstasy of the ravenous Tifosi!

 

I say cynical, since Ferrari seems destined to go winless this season, and the pre-season Honeymoon has long since faded over Hamilton joining la Scuderia…

 

Although the weekend started off on the right note with Lewis Hamilton being fastest overall in Friday’s (Free Practice) FP-1 session. With Charles Leclerc qualifying fourth, and Hamilton fifth. Before Hamilton’s five place grid drop penalty for ignoring double waved Yellow flags at Zandvoort.

 

Leclerc made the race’s start interesting by jumping ahead of Oscar Piastri into third briefly. But would ultimately finish where He started, (fourth) and Hamilton would finish sixth. As the Ferrari’s simply didn’t have the pace of the McLaren’s, or the Red Bull on Sunday.

 

Although nobody can keep pace with the McLaren’s over race distance right now…

 

While we all know it was Max Verstappen cantering away from the field after a brief skirmish with Bosom Buddy Lando Norris. Ultimately beating Lando by 19 seconds enroute to setting the All-time fastest ever F1 race, completed in One Hour, 13mins and 24.325 seconds. Beating Michael Schumacher’s previous 2003 mark by one minute, Bravo!

 

While I know I’ve actually seen the original 312T, Nos. 11-12 in action at Laguna Seca during the Monterey Historics over 30 years ago now, Yikes!

 

Meanwhile, we also know about Lewis Hamilton proclaiming during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend that He felt Useless and Ferrari should replace Him with another driver, after a dismal qualifying effort.

 

As Hamilton at age 40, has definitely struggled to come to grips with His new surroundings after 12 years at Mercedes. Even if He’s paid a King’s ransom to drive for Maranello…

 

I bring this up since I noticed that Geo. Phillips of Oilpressure fame noted how Statistician Russ Thompson  noted how only a dozen. Hum, who drove the No. 12 forever in IndyCar, Eh?

 

Only 12 drivers who’ve turned age 45 since 1956 have won an IndyCar race; and only one in the 21st century. Meaning the odds are definitely stacked against Will Power.

 

But then again, statistics noted that no Formula 1 driver with 300 starts or more had ever won a Grand Prix. Which naturally Hamilton went onto break this stat by winning twice in 2024; winning the British Grand Prix on His 344th start! Before belatedly winning the Belgian Grand Prix after teammate George Russell’sdisqualification, Youch! Netting Hamilton a staggering 105 Grands Prix total, Momma Mia!

 

As Lewis is only the second F1 driver to make more than 350 Grands Prix starts, and will join Fernando Alonso in the 400 Grands Prix starts club at the end of next season.

 

Hamilton is nearly five years younger than Power, so who knows? Whilst F1’s elder Statesman Frederico Suave (Alonso) is still competing fiercely at age 44.

 

Then again, 19yr old Italian Wunderkind’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who replaced Hamilton at Mercedes this season. Was given a five second time penalty for driving erratically during His Home race. Having pushed Alexander Albon onto the grass at High speed! Leading to the teenager incurring another penalty point to His FIA Super Licence, for a total of five.

 

Whilst 20yr old Oliver Bearman not only was given a ten second penalty at Monza. But also notched a further two penalty points to His license for His contretemps with Carlos Sainz. Having amassed ten, jus two shy of the threshold for an automatic one race ban. With Bearman needing to keep His “nose” clean until November’s Brazilian GP. As the maximum of 12 points is for one year, before points are dismissed… 

A Different Herta moves to Sports Cars

Hey, I had to do it. As Pun intended…

 

Forgive Mwah if my No Fenders content takes a slight dive here, Y’all. But I’m still patiently Cough-Cough! Waiting for Racer.com’s 2.0 website revision to comply with WCAG 2.2 Accessibility standards.

 

And Nah, I haven’t been holding my breath since this was promised Wayback’ on August 1st. So never fear Yuhs Blue Smurfs!

 

Thus perusing Daily Sports Car, I ran across the article about BHA joining forces with PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports, Huh?

 

For those of Yuhs who still don’t know what I’m talking about? Which Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary Ellen says is a common occurrence, Youch! Bryan Herta Autosport (BHA) will make the leap to the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s LMP2 category next year.

 

As Bryan Herta, Colton’s father, has run a very successful motorsports team for several years now, Uhm decades. Most notably winning the Indianapolis 500 twice as a Car owner. First in 2011 with the late Dan Wheldon. And then in conjunction with Mikey A’, and Andretti Autosport as co-owner of Alexander Rossi’s Centenary edition 2016 Indy 500 winner.

 

BHA has been most successful in IMSA’s Michelin Pilot Challenge with Hyundai. Winning six manufacturers Championships. Along with five straight Touring Car (TCR) titles between 2019-2023. Most notably when Robert Wickens and co-driver Harry Gottsacker won the title in 2023. Aboard their Hyundai Elantra N TCR, specially adapted with Hand Controls, which BHA pioneered in the TCR class with Michael Johnson.

 

PR1 Mathiasen Motorsports has been a perennial winner in the LMP2 category, having claimed five of six LMP2 titles, last in 2024. Making this partnership a force to be reckoned with!

 

As the No. 52 Oreca/Gibson V-8  LMP2 entry will be run out of BHA’s new premises in Brownsburg, Indiana. Debuting at the forthcoming November IMSA test at Daytona, with drivers to be named later.

 

Purely speculating, could this be a tune-up for BHA running Hyundai’s Genesis Magma Racing GMR001 Prototype in IMSA GTP in 2027? You Make the Call… 

When is an IndyCar Driver too Old?

Will Power tapestry hanging in the Penske Racing Museum. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

And who am I to question when a driver should retire? Especially if they’re still Haulin’ the Mail, ergo performing. And potentially tapping into thoust mythical Fountain of Youth?

 

Yeah, we all know the seismic moves in IndyCar occurring just 48 hours after the chequered flag few at Nashville. For which I still have a hard time believing, having scribbled the following on Saturday afternoon.

 

Hope I’m not reading too much into this, but! Listened to Qualie’ today from Nashville on IndyCar Radio. And when Michael Schreech’ Young was interviewing Will Power, He sounded the most despondent I’ve heard Him in a very long time! Had very short, shaky, terse answers. With much gloom in His voice! Making me wonder if the reality of it being His final IndyCar race was suddenly hitting Him?

 

As I’ll agree I think He’s at least gone from Penske, which is a shame. Especially since He’s their best performer this year, and His replacement David Malukas, although showing brief glimpses of promise. Especially with the last two weeks front row qualifying effort, still doesn’t seem a better driver than Power is. Even if He’s the second oldest driver on the grid.

 

Colton Herta wasn’t much better in His brief interview either. Apparently telling Jake the Riddler’ Query, He didn’t know when asked about leaving Andretti? Although it just sounded like He mumbled when asked.

 

Now talk about sour grapes, as I find it quite pettish that Team Penske is holding onto Will Power until His contract expires on December 31st, Really? Like Ain’t that Christmas party gonna be really awkward, Eh? As this seems quite churlish by El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske!

 

It's well documented that William Steven Power will turn the age of 45 years old at St Pete on race day, March 1, 2026. Yet nobody’s been asking for Scotty thee Iceman 2.0 Dixon to bring us His Torch, Righto?

 

With Dixon, the elder Statesman of IndyCar telling one of IMS Radio Network’s pit reporters Yeah Man, I’ll be back when asked about next year. For which I’m fairly certain that Cheep’s being far more classier’ than Roger is regarding Dixon’s future. With Ganassi letting Dixon race for the team as long as He wants to.

 

Since Power mimics the longterm success of Dixon. Having scored 42 wins and 65 pole positions during His 17 seasons at Team Penske. Not to mention once again, finishing the highest of its three drivers in ninth place this season. One point ahead of ScottyMac’, ergo Scott McLaughlin in tenth; with Josef Schlick’ Newgarden P12…

 

Whilst I always enjoy seeing new, young and raw talent become Stars of the future in IndyCar. Once again, I’d have to say that Penske got this one all wrong! And like Helio Castroneves premature end at Team Penske, I now sincerely hope that DJ WillyP’ has a Breakout season at Andretti Global!

 

As it would be fantastic for Power to win a few races, most notably the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500! And really stick the knife into Penske by winning His third Astor cup next year! Although the championship obviously runs thru Alex Palou and Chip Ganassi Racing once again…

 

And by the way, I have nothing against David Malukas, who’s been my Numero doce IndyCar driver for many years now. But I’ve also been a Huge Will Power Fan, ever since that brief unexpected encounter in the old IMS Hall of Fame museo Wayback’ in Gory 2009.

 

Having scribbled about my appreciation for DJ WillyP”’

over the years here on No Fenders, and am simply dismayed over How RP’ and Team Penske handled the whole Power contract negotiations affair! Which David Malsher-Lopez so eloquently lays out in His Racer article below.

 

An Inglorious End to a Glorious Partnership

 

Strange Days Indeed! 

IndyCar releases 2026 Schedule

Which Ain’t Bad, nor is it Awesome. Just feels largely Status Quo…

 

I got my first whisper of impending changes to the NTT IndyCar Series 2026 season’s schedule Monday afternoon when perusing Oilpressure. Noting how the rumour was that Laguna Seca would be replacing Nashville as the season finale. Which as we all know, has now been made official.

 

Guessing the rush to publish next year’s schedule was partially to put “Damage Control” upon Mexico City not being on next year’s calendar, Ci? Which was announced in a Saturday morning press release…

 

Not to mention that the rumoured Washington DC street race is a non-starter. Although as David Land notes. It was never gonna happen for next year, since new races take at least a year to come to fruition.

 

As there’s only two “surprises” for Mwah, albeit knowing the first, i.e.; Nashville and Laguna Seca swapping spots. Although the Nashville race will become a night event immediately following FOX’s FIFA World cup Soccer Final. Along with being lengthened to 400 miles distance. Making me wonder what Firestone will do about its troublesome right front tire wear?

 

The other surprise is that Milwaukee returns to a double Header, albeit we knew that Iowa was “Toast!”

 

As the 2026 season will begin with three races in-a-row over three weeks. Beginning at St Pete on March 1st, Will Power’s 45th Birthday.

 

Followed by a return to Phoenix, as part of a NASCAR Double Header weekend. Although IndyCar will run on Saturday, and sounds like they’ll play second fiddle to the Xfiniti race, Sigh. Which according to David Land, is only a one year deal…

 

Then its off to Arlington, Texas for the inaugural street race around the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers stadiums, before closing the month of March out at thee Oh, so Beautiful Barber’s, nee Barber Motorsports Park on March 29th, one month earlier than normal. Long Beach is the lone race in April, followed by the Month of May. And then the remainder of the schedule…

 

The second new venue is Oh Canada’s Streets of Markum race in “August. Moving from Toronto, to make way for World Cup soccer matches being contested at BMO Field’s pitch during July. With the new street venue on a five year contract.

 

There’s a total of 17 races once again, with six street circuits and six Oval races on five tracks. Along with five road courses. Which I’ll say at least IndyCar wisely chose to not conflict with either the 12 Hours of Sebring or 24 Hours of Le Mans. Along with also not Bumpin’ up against the Brickyard 400.

 

As I’d say the only disappointment, minus the traditional, ridiculously short season. Is ending at Laguna Seca, which has become as David Land says. The Alex Palou victory lap parade!

 

While my memory seems to recall that lately Laguna Seca has been overly processional! As didn’t Palou win recently by some 30 or more seconds?

 

As don’t get me wrong, I’m a Huge Fan of Laguna Seca with its signature Corkscrew turn. But the race doesn’t seem to inspire much passing. And it sounds like this was done to appease Corporate Sponsors were IndyCar, nee Penske Entertainment could wine ‘n dine them…

 

As perhaps Scott Dixon said it best, proclaiming that Laguna Seca is Sleepy! And just doesn’t exude the type of energy Y’all would want for your season finale before going into winter’s hibernation, Eh?

 

As Y’all can check out IndyCar’s dizzying, glitzy, Gee Wally Ah Shucks, its the Bestest press release below.

 

IndyCar announces 17 race 2026 NTT IndyCar series schedule

 

As thars’ only 163 days to go in the El Stupidio IndyCar Offseason… 

MOTO GP: Steiner leads Tech3 Takeover

As may be NetFlix will need to start a Real Housewives of MotoGP series, Eh?

 

Herr Guenther’, aka Guenter Steiner, former Haas F1 Team Principal who resides in North Carolina. Leads a consortium that has bought the Red Bull KTM Tech3 MotoGP team from current owner Herve Poncharal, and will take over ownership beginning in 2026.

 

Poncharal will stay on as team consultant next year, and the satellite KTM squad will remain in its base in France, along with all of its current staff.

 

Steiner, (age 60) will be the team’s CEO, with Richard Coleman becoming the new Team Principal, in what’s rumoured to have been a $20m Euros transaction. Apex Management Group and Icon Capital led the group of investors in this purchase. With the deal being announced at the Barcelona MotoGP round.

 

Steiner says that Dorna Sports told Him to “Not F**K IT UP!” As presumably this scratches Herr Guenther’s itch to return to the Paddock, albeit in two wheels instead of four…

 

As Poncharal founded Tech3 in 1990, first contesting the 250cc Grand Prix category, which the team won with Olivier Jacque in 2000 riding a Yamaha.

 

For 2001,  the team based in Bormes les Mimosas, France graduated to the GP500 series, forerunner of today’s MotoGP, continuing with Yamaha. As the team would include the impressive lineup of Ben ELBOZ’ Spies and Colin Edwards in 2010.

 

Tech3 made the shock decision to switch to KTM Scooters’ for the 2019 MotoGP season, becoming KTM’s satellite squad.

 

Miguel Oliveira won His and Tech3’s maiden MotoGP race at Spielberg the following year, on Tech3’s 373rd start. And Oliveira backed this up by winning again at season’s end at His Home race in Portugal.

 

Tech3’s current MotoGP riders are Maverick Vinales and Enea Bastianini, who ranked P14-15 Overall respectively prior to Barcelona. Whilst Tech3 also competes in Moto3 currently with riders Jacob Roulstone and Valentin Perron.

 

Meanwhile, and Don’t tell DC Comics about this! But just think of the fun they could have with Herr Guenther’, Vinales who’s nickname includes Top Gun and Batman. Whilst Bastianini is known as The Beast, just Sayin’, Hya! 

Testing-Testing, Check 1-2-3’

Marco’s wreckage at Mother Speedway, a long time ago. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Trying to figure out Blogger’s annoying issue of “Uploading” images the Old Fashioned way. Without creating Broken images or accidently turning on unwanted Hyperlinks, Shite! 

19B: No Fenders turns the late Justin Wilson’s Car number today

Long ago Justin Wilson “Hero” Card collected during the 2014 Sonoma IndyCar Driver’s Autograph session. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

With no disrespect towards James Jake, Ana Beatriz, Carlos Huertas or whomever else once presumably drove the #19 Dale Coyne Racing entry?

 

as the needle continuously skips upon the scratchy vinyl record on thoust turntable upon Nofendersville, Y’all know the drill…

 

As I hadn’t even contemplated it was the 10 year anniversary of Justin Big Unit Wilson’s passing when I began scribblin’ this. Ah, I love the smell ‘O synchronicity in the Morning! As IndyCar was racing at the Milwaukee Mile on the tenth anniversary of His Death…

 

Justin Wilson: 1978-2015

 

Or that Amazingly, your Humble No Fenders scribe Tomaso would still be labouriously poondin’ away at Ye ancient Selectric keyboard here at No Fenders! Still merrily creating fresh content for Y’all weekly consumption 19 Gory years later, Aye Karumba!

 

First ‘n foremost, like All the IndyCar drivers do. Its time to thank the Fans for perusing No Fenders and hopefully reading some of my Zany Blog posts the past 12 months, especially All four of my loyal readers! which are lovingly honed with a dull, rusty knife in Tomaso Manor whilst thoust waves crash upon the jagged coastline of Nofendersville Mateys, Shiver Me Timbers!

 

As why does that ‘Ol MacDougals slogan now serving (19 Million) here come to mind again, Hya!

 

Uhm, where to begin another year later, Eh? Suppose I’ll start with the low lying fruit, even though I’m feeling what’s that word Geddy? Oh yeah, Nihilistic over being in a Post IndyCar Season Funk…

 

As we all know, Alex Palou had a magical season this year, aiming for His ninth win of the season at Portland. Where once again I was passing thru via Amtrak on my way north to Warshington’. Before tuning into the race from one of Puget Sound's many Islands.

 

Meanwhile, thee Pinball Wizard’, nee Marc Marquez has systematically decimated the MotoGP grid this year! Having won eight times thru their summer break following Bruno in the Czech Republic, where Marquez secured His fifth consecutive win this season. Catapulting the Spaniard to second overall in career wins, surpassing the legendous’ Giacomo Agostini.

 

Whilst Denis Hauger has pretty much blitzed the Indy Lights, Err NXT field. Winning six times prior to Portland. His only blemish being the collision with Andretti Global teammate Lochi Hughes at Laguna Seca, seeing His points lead evaporate to 32 markers after leading by 93 Me Thinks…

 

Although Hauger secured both the Driver’s and Rookie of the Year Championships with a fine second place at Milwaukee.

 

this year in the life of Tomaso has just Zoom-Zoomed bye-bye again. As no Roger Waters put a log on the fire Jokes here, Hya!

 

Having felt fairly morose when beginning scribbling this. Since I’m forever trying to have new, fresh Blog content ready to upload on No Fenders, even if I promised myself I wouldn’t let Ye Blob’ consume me! Yet after 19 years, ifs become a piece of my daily fabric…

 

Now I could complain about RACER having wrecked its website with its redesign, which if you’ve been reading my eclectic scribbles, Yuhs know they’ve failed to follow WCAG 2.2 guidelines, the foundations of making Web Content Accessible for everyone, i.e.; Blind and Visually Impaired readers…

 

Trying to Follow IndyCar is a Hard Job

 

Or I could grumble about the insane scrutiny I experienced during my first flight post Open Heart surgery, where TSA didn’t give me the option of walking thru the metal detector on my own as in years past…

 

The Perks of being A Blind Traveler

 

Yet how can I righteously complain about any of these “First World” problems when my Government is complicit in the Deaths and Starvation of thousands of people in the Middle East! Where the figure of some 60,000, mainly Women and Children have been killed during this senseless Genocide!

 

Not to mention 373 people, including 134 children; as of September 5th, perishing from famine is incomprehensible! With a Famine just being officially declared, Shit!

 

VIDEO: “Be sure to Wear some Flowers in your Hair”

 

While our Pretender-in-chief Bombastically was busy playing golf in Scotland and presumably stuffing His face with Five Star meals. Not to mention the fabled G7 saying pass the gravy, when civilians were dying hourly from malnutrition! And those in power continue the practices of Colonization in their interests…

 

As what’s that ‘Ol U2 Rattle and Hum song where Bono says “Am I buggin’ you Man? I Don’t mean to bug You, play the Blues Edge!”

 

As the song Silver and Gold is about Apartheid in South Africa, for which currently is occurring in the Middle East! As I Don’t mean to Bug Yuhs…

 

VIDEO: Sover and Gold - live

 

“Imagine there’s No Countries

It isn’t Hard to do

Nothing to Kill or Die for

And No Religion too

 

Imagine All the People

Living for Today

 

Imagine No Possessions

I wonder if you Can

No need for Grief or Hunger

A Brotherhood of Man

 

Imagine All the People

Living life in Peace

 

You may say I’m a dreamer

But I’m not the only one

I hope someday You’ll join Us

And the World will be as One”

 

VIDEO: A Perfect Circle’s Imagine

 

For those still following along. Thanks to everyone visiting Nofendersville and reading my eclectic scribblings upon No Fenders All these years!

 

Since this Uber' eclectic mix 'N veritable Spin Cycle 'O finely honed Thomason' Tex-Mex Jambalaya of Wordsmithing wouldn't have been possible over thoust numerous seasons without All of the Usual suspects continued yearly support.

 

And like Melody Sheik brilliantly “Sings” in His Symphony of Science Masterpiece from over a Dozen years ago now. As it’ll be just plain weird not having DJ WillyP’ in His ubiquitous No. 12 Team Penske entry next year! But there’s Billions and Billions of Stars, and “We Are All connected”.

 

VIDEO: We Are All Connected

 

Whilst never fear Ladies and Germs’, Your Humble No Fenders Scribe Tomaso is planning on sticking round for awhile. Especially since I’ll be celebrating my milestone 20th Anniversary next September!

 

Arrivederci,

Tomaso

 

Partial song lyrics from: John Lennon’s Imagine. From His second Solo album Imagine, 1971. With the title song “Imagine” peeking at No. 1 in both the UK and USA. 

So much for a Quiet IndyCar Offseason!

Tell me why I Don’t like Monday’s again?

 

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. No Fenders isn’t a Breaking News Blogsite Y’all! As where’s ‘Ol Foghorn Leghorn, I Say, I Say?

 

As we know, the 2025 IndyCar Silly Season had incredulously ramped-up during the final stretch of this year’s season, with DJ WillyP’s future being the major domino…

 

On Monday, September 2nd, it was confirmed that Will Power had departed Team Penske after 17 seasons. Netting multiple accolades driving for El Capitano’, including the bulk of His 45 wins and career leading 71 pole positions. Along with two IndyCar Championships and the 2018 Borg Warner trophy.

 

What I still cannot comprehend is Power replacing Colton Herta at Andretti Global, which was announced the following day. As I don’t “See” how Colton slots into a Cadillac F1 seat for 2027,after a year in Formula 2? Especially since both Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez are on multi-year deals.

 

Although I didn’t “See” Herta being announced as Cadillac’s Test driver for next year. While it would make sense if He does race Formula 2 next season, since they compete on the majority of Formula 1 race circuits…

 

Naturally, David Malukas will replace Power in the No. 12. While scuttlebutt suggests that its just a formality before Rinus VeeKay takes Malukas’s seat at A.J. Foyt Enterprises. Since it was confirmed the Dutchman had left Dale Coyne Racing the same day.

 

Hmm? I’m guessing that VeeKay’s “insurance” for if Malukas fails to perform at Penske? Arse-suming both on standard “Multi-year”, ergo two year contracts. Naturally with many clauses included…

 

This leaves Coyne with most likely two empty seats, with its No. 18 entry’s “short-list” including Romain Grosjean and Linus Lundqvist. For which it sounds like the seat’s tipped in Grosjean’s favour…

 

While rumours suggest that Andretti Global will pay for reigning Indy NXT Champion Dennis Haugger to “Play” aboard DCR’s No. 51 for a year. Before Arse-sumedly sliding into Marcus Ericsson’s #28seat for 2027.

 

Thus, if All of that conjecture happens, which most seems certain now. That leads us with just two, three, or possibly four seats remaining for next year.

 

As I’m guessing both Juncos Hollinger Racing seats are available. And ditto for the No. 30 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing seat, for the right price. Along with the No. 83 Prema Racing seat, provided Prema remains on the grid next year?

 

As the $64k question now, is which driver from what series can bring the necessary budget to land one of the few, remaining IndyCar seats for 2026. Since even Dale Coyne has said He’ll have His two car line-up announced by Halloween. Be still my beating Heart!

 

And there Yuhs have it. Or at least what I’d gleamed from last weeks announcements, with more to come… 

More Silly Season Silliness?

As how many “licks” does it take to get to the center of the Will Power Sweepstakes?

 

Yeah, most likely this is pure fantasy. Having already been confirmed?

 

Monday morning, following the Milwaukee IndyCar race. I “read”, err listened to Indianapolis Star’s Motorsports Beat reporter Nathan Browne’s story upon where did Will Power stand for next year? Along with the rumour of Colton Herta going to Formula 2 to garner the necessary points for His FIA Super Licence, Huh?

 

Not to mention claiming Graham Rahal told Conor Daly on Daly’s Podcast that He thought DJ willyP’ would land at Andretti Global next year, not at RLLR.

 

Also mentioning that Power had spoken again with El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske. But still didn’t know His future with the team He’s driven for 17 years. Although I immediately pondered to Thyself; didn’t know, or couldn’t Say publicly?

 

Kicking virtual tyres’, here’s what seems all wrong with this speculation to Mwah. Which once again possibly has become a moot topic while I’ve been away from Zed Keyboard, Eh?

 

First off, if Cadillac signs both Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas for 2026 as rumoured; I cannot “See” why they wouldn’t do so only on a multi-year contract. With Mick Schumacher rumoured being the team’s Test and Reserve Driver, making things awfully crowded for Herta’s potential arrival.

 

As would Colton be willing to race in F2 for multiple seasons with the hopes of scoring the requisite points needed for His FIA Super Licence? As there’s no guarantee’s He’ll amass the needed points racing in the “Junior” formula.

 

Whilst perhaps Schumacher moves from Alpine to Cadillac in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) next year also? With Fernando Alonso throwing Aston Martin F1 Reserve Felipe Drugovich’s name into the mix.

 

For Humour, say Power does go to Andretti and Herta goes to Formula 2. What does Andretti Global do with its reigning Indy NXT Champion Dennis Hauger?

 

Do they “loan” Him out to A.J. Foyt Enterprises on a one year Dealio’, a la Kyle Kirkwood? Since Foyt’s now got a technical alliance with Team Penske, does that cause aProblema?

 

And what happens if Foyt looses the funding for its second car, which would reportedly happen if David Malukas replaces Power at Team Penske, if I’m reading the proverbial tea leaves correctly…

 

While we also don’t know about Sexton Properties funding its No. 14 entry next year?

 

And I say one year deal, since then Hauger could slot into the No. 28 seat of Marcus Ericsson after His contract expires next year. Or does Hauger go to Juncos Hollinger Racing on a similar situation?

 

But like Rinus VeeKay mused, and presumably the other drivers on the “market”. They’re All holding their collective breaths to see where Power goes next year?

 

While it would really be nice to see Linus Lundqvist get a second chance somewhere next year.

 

Along with Racer.com finally having fixed its Goobered website and my screen reader “Zoey, the Princess Warrior” will be able to read its story titles once again? Meaning I can actually find out what’s going on in der Wurld de Motorsporten, Ja-Ja!

 

Naturally, I first listened to Marshall Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar Podcast. Where He chortled amusedly over the notion of Colton Herta going to F2, Saying that would be a fun Headline to write…

 

Then the day after scribblin’ this riveting No Fenders prose. Cadillac confirmed both Bottas and Perez as the team’s two race drivers, with both indeed on multi-year contracts. Which I’d Arse-sume means a minimum of two years, and perhaps options for a third.

 

Meaning I’ll take Hearta “Off the Board” for going anywhere next year. And if Power’s indeed gone from Penske? I still think His best option is the #30 RLLR entry. Guessing Graham cannot say anything publicly due to contractual clauses, but DeFrancesco isn’t exactly overperforming.

 

Or I suppose there’s the unlikely possibility of Malukas and Power just simply doing a seat swap? As I really cannot “See” Power wanting to drive for JHR.

 

And that’s before we even get to the other myriad ‘O rumours, scuttlebutt or just pure conjecture! Like what happens to Prema Racing over the Off-season? Whilst Marshall Pruett’s fairly confident we won’t see Robert Shwartzman back next year. Who’s reportedly miserable Stateside and seeking return to Europe…

FOX in The Hen House

Y’all knew that one was Ah-Comin’, didn’t Yuhs? Now where’s Foghorn Leghorn, I Say, I Say?

 

First ‘n Foremost, suppose I should remind Y’all that I’m apparently a card carrying member of les Miserables, Wee-Wee…

 

As its old news now that the FOX Corporation has acquired one third ownership in Penske Entertainment, i.e.; IndyCar, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IMS Productions.

 

And that FOX is excited to bring Innovation to IndyCar’s, Supercharge its potential, Make its Drivers and IndyCar Household names, along with telling us great stories about the Sport All year round…

 

As some of that’s true. And let’s just same some I’ve Embellished upon…

 

Overall, I’m really not sure what to make about this surprising development that “Dropped” on Thursday, July 31st.

 

funniest bit in the press release is the quote from El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske or simply RP’. About the long-standing trust and shared vision for the future in this partnership with FOX is perplexing to Mwah…

 

Hang on uno momento, how do you have long-standing trust with a company; Err Corporation you haven’t even been working with for one year?

 

But now they’re tied at the Hip and FOX will be helping to guarantee energizing IndyCar’s future, Spew! Can Y’all say Rucky Dawgs’ and Checkers or Wreckers, Yeehaw! Or Playoffs and All Star race?

 

Why not incorporate ‘Ol Uncle Bernaughty’s desire for sprinklers on-track at F1 circuits? Or scheduling races during the afternoon’s Monsoons, eh?

 

As FOX started off this new relationship swimmingly Y’all! As I’d had no clue what the “Programming” Delay was during the Portland IndyCar race, when the start was delayed 15mins.

 

Having subsequently learned via David Land that many Folks in TV Land were rightly peeved with FOX! Having bumped IndyCar over to FS1 as the Live Golf match went long, Four!

 

Along with some local FOX Affiliates dropping the race entirely. Most notably Chicago, where David Malukas and Dale Coyne Racing Hail from. In favour of a Chicago Bears NFL Pre-season game instead! Uhm, let that sink in Y’all, BARF!

 

Along with FOX gaining a multi-year broadcasting rights extension, I doubt the season’s calendar will expand anytime soon, i.e.; begin sooner or end later, since FOX has the Day-Toner’ 500 and Football bookending IndyCar’s take it or leave it schedule…

 

Another entertaining part of this acquisition is how the whole FOX airing the entire season on Network TV was supposed to increase viewership; hopefully to one million viewers average outside the Indy 500 race. Yet FOX is actually averaging less than NBC did.

 

As FOX had its sixth consecutive broadcast of less than 800,000 viewers at Laguna Seca, and I couldn’t see how this trend doesn’t continue for the Portland broadcasts. Which it did, dropping from 734k to 708k viewers, whilst no idea how Milwaukee did?

 

Still not sure how FOX is going to “energize” IndyCar going forwards? Or how their metrics claim a 31% increased growth for year over year broadcasting?

 

On the positive side, selling a third of Penske Entertainment perceivably shores up its weakest link, i.e.; marketing and promotion of the series. But the other strange comment from FOX CEO Eric Shanks, which I heard on David Land’s Youtube Channel. Was about the potential for “Storytelling” of IndyCar year round, Say What?

 

How do you do that when your Hyper-energized racing series is Hibernating for Half the Freakin’ year? Having already begun its long winter’s slumber before Labour Day, Chirp-Chirp, Bueller?

 

What little I’ve read and listened via Podcast on FOX becoming a vested partner in IndyCar, tends to make me believe that Roger will never sell IMS. And wishes to keep in the “Family” for generations to come. And with a 66% controlling interest, that sounds feasible to Mwah for the time being. But who knows, Eh?

 

As I “See” this basically as a way for Roger to insert a “Poison Pill” into others trying to buy Penske Entertainment into the future, along with getting somebody to do the marketing work His team is Failing at currently…

 

Since as Marshall Pruett notes, FOX now has a vested interest financially to make the series grow, in order to please its Shareholders, and their bottom lines.

 

My only question is what happens if FOX decides its not going well and wishes to divest itself from IndyCar in the future? Although I’d guess there would be some sort of buyout clauses in their contract?

 

Now I’ve gotta go find my Coastal.com Tristan Turbo’ Vautier Cheap Sunglasses from Mother speedway, cause’ the Futures so Bright! 

Football or Bust?

A “Brawny” Marco Andretti cutting a sizeable swath thru Gasoline Alley. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Perhaps when Marco decides to finally hang up His racing Helmut. He can swap it for a Football Helmut and rum roughshod on the Gridiron, Hut-Hut Arkansas

 

Photo c/o No Fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets’