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! 

IndyCar, Be Afraid! Its Football time again

“Johnny said you play a pretty good Fiddle, now let me show You How its done!” Hut-Hut, Arkansas!

 

Obviously, this No Fenders rant is pointless! But I felt like uncorking it anyways…

 

As two songs crystalized upon my internal Jukebox after that Oh, so clever title sprang to mind! Since none other than the late Larry McMurtry said He couldn’t write the book until He had a title for it…

 

Thus Wasted Days and Wasted nights first flashed upon my radar. But thinking more about the fearful 869lbs Gorr-rillia’ that IndyCar’s so scared to go up against. Instead Charlie Daniels Devil Went Down to Georgia seemed more Apropos. Since after all, think Georgia’s Football country, Y’all?

 

Having said it before, I’ll stand firm on my conviction that IndyCar sold its Soul to FOX for its latest TV Broadcast deal. For which the crammed down our gullet July portion of the calendar saw FOX only average 734,000 viewers for the Toronto IndyCar race. Last seen on Terrestrial TV Wayback’ in gory 2019, when the NBC Sports Broadcast netted a stark 504,000 viewers. Before NBC showed Oh Canada the love yearly, by making Toronto its only Peacock streaming race of the season.

 

As the hoped for silver bullet of inking FOX as the new television partner, was that the network FOX TV Broadcasts would result in a viewer ratings surge to above the magic One million viewer threshold weekly, Which we know didn’t happen.

 

As Toronto was FOX’s fifth  consecutive race during summer without an audience over 800k. Netting FOX eighth races under 800k, albeit four races above One million viewers.

 

Arse-suming Laguna Seca kept FOX’s streak of under 800,000 viewers going…

 

Average FOX Broadcast equals 829,000+ to date, through 12 races, not including this year’s Indianapolis 500. Compared to NBC’s 38 (2019-2024) non-conflicting races vs. NASCAR, the Indy 500, weather delays, NFL or COVID-19 season averaged 998k plus. Which drops to 935,408 for races going up against opening weeks of NFL. football.

 

While NBC’s six non-conflict telecasts last year averaged 932,833 to FOX’s 829,833 = Over 100k less FOX viewers to date! Which I’d say will not improve with the doldrums, Err Dog Dazes ‘O August fast approaching. Uhm, where’d they go Vern?

 

NBC’s 2024 tally dips to an average of 868k plus when factoring in last year’s Nashville finale vs. Week 2 of NFL Football, Urgh! Which was still approx. 40k higher than FOX’s tally through Toronto…

 

Look, I get it, which doesn’t mean I have to like it! That we’ll never go back to IndyCar’s Heyday’s of CART. Which for example the 1990 CART PPG IndyCar World Series also featured 17 races. Beginning on April 8th at Phoenix International Raceway. And ending on October 21st at Laguna Seca Raceway, with effectively a Double Header. Due to the Marlboro Challenge race running on Saturday.

 

With two new races added that year, both being street races at Denver and Vancouver, with Pocono being dropped due to safety concerns.

 

Although 30 years ago, the IndyCar season began another 17 race calendar on March 5th at Miami’s Bicentennial Park. And concluded the season on September 10th at Laguna Seca. With seven street races, six Ovals and four road course races.

 

Hmm, don’t Y’all just love when history gets in the way of your rant? As perhaps this six months on/off thingy’ Aint’ so new, Eh?

 

Yet IndyCar is never going to improve their ratings until they figure out how to improve the schedule away from its yearly Famine-Feast-Famine routine. As everyone knows All about the ridiculous six month Hibernation. Followed by two or three races with three week gaps between them, Blah-blah-Blah. For which I’d say the 1995 calendar was way more “balanced” and flowing nicely, without any momentum killing gaps upon it.

 

Then slamming half of the season between May to June. A weekend off and then another five races over four July weekends, before limping to the finale on August 31st, Crickets! Is never going to grow your desired audience…

 

And let’s not even get started on one of IndyCar’s worst Buzzwords. Can Y’all say Date Equity? With it being time to play Wackamole again…

 

I also  understand we cannot compare IndyCar to NASCAR or Groan, Formula 1, who’s sweeping the nation with it Real Housewives of F1 reality TV Show. Be still my bleeding Heart. What will they do with the demise of Chris Horner, eh?

 

But its funny how IMSA’s still got a few races left on their calendar, i.e.; Battle on The Bricks (Sept 21st) and Petit Le Mans. (Oct 11^th) While the NHRA’s still racing until November 16th at Pomona, the conclusion of its 20 race season. Even with the litany of Pigskins being tossed round, Illegal Formation – tweet!

 

As believe it or not? Thars’ some of us who only follow Motorsports. Meaning its good to have other racing series to follow in IndyCar’s absence. Especially since IndyCar has gone into its winter’s slumber, and won’t see its shadow for another Freakin’ six months, Sigh!

 

As what’s that ‘Ol saying about Out of sight, Out of mind! Which ironically, Davey Hamilton said the very same thing during the Laguna Seca race, regarding the shortness of the IndyCar season…

 

(TV Ratings Source: Indianapolis Star, Nathan Browne)

Sugarplums, Rainbows and Splenda Sweetness abound at Milwaukee

As where’s Good ‘Ol Homer Simpson to say MMM-MMM, Sprinkles?

 

Whale’ lookie Tahr Folks. My Cable TV Bill just keeps going up and up, Bastardoes! As welcome home Tomaso, we’ve tacked on an additional $7.00 to your overpriced bill, Jackarses!

 

Hmm, what’s my Cable TV provider’s motto? Oh yeah, Spectrum, We Care!

 

So guess it’s a good thingy’ I “watched”, Err listened to over half of Saturday mornings practice session from Milwaukee on FS1 during a leisurely breakfast. But  I just don’t get any “excitement” or Buzz listening to the Booth boyz’, especially Wee Willie Buxom’, aka Will Buxton, or Kevin Lee.

 

Even with FOX owning a third of the series, which I hear they threw IndyCar under the Bus at Portland by moving the race to FS1 since the Live Gold game was going long. As all that IndyCar Radio would say was it was a programming problem when the start was delayed 15mins from 12:22 to 12:37PM Pacific, FOUR!

 

As even Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary ellen asked me why hadn’t they started the race yet? Which I listened to in its entirety via IndyCar Radio on one of the Islands in the Puget sound’s “Archipelago”. Accessible only via Washington State Ferry (WSF) fleet of “Timeless” boat, which even sometimes run on schedule, Toot-tooth!

 

As for Milwaukee, as much as I’d liked for  Palou getting win #9 w’; having boldly told boss Cheep’ He was going to win. Have to say I was Rootin’ for William Steven Power or ScottyMac’ to win instead.

 

As I thought it would be Hilarious for Power to win His second race of the season and really make Penske squirm!

 

Although it was Kyffin Simpson making DJ WillyP’ squirm instead, when giving Him the Kyff-Dog’ Swerve, Youch!

 

While once again I was Rootin’ against my Numero Uno IndyCar Driver Pato Who? During Qualie’, wanting to “See” Davey Malukas “Break His Duck” and claim His first IndyCar pole. Which the Chicago lad came Oh, so tantalizingly close to. Until Alex Palou did what He’s done All season long, claiming His sixth pole of the season, Boo!

 

As this left me begging the question. What would you take? A one year extension at Penske, knowing your toast afterwards. Or a two year deal with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing As it sounds like RLLR clearly wants Power; with Sparky’ making way for the Man from Down Under…

 

Whilst it sounds like it’s a foregone conclusion that Penske will take David Malukas next year, even if He claims to be on a two year contract with Foyt. Which would leave Foyt in a Huge Hole for its second car’s budget! Especially since Team Penske is footing the bill for Malukas’s ride.

 

As Marshall Pruett pointed out that Penske hasn’t taken a young driver with zero poles or wins in 40 years! And yes, Scott McLaughlin was a rookie with zero IndyCar poles or wins. But He was a multi-times Supercars champion with some 57 W’s if I remember correctly.

 

With Pruett noting in His August 8th Racer Silly Season update. For which I was still waiting for the website reboot to be upgraded to the Web Content Accessibility Guideline (WCAG) standards “promised” by the time I returned home; Uhm, Oopsadaisy, Butterfingers!

 

Noting how perhaps Jacob Abel could “Backfill” the second Foyt seat? Although perhaps Sparky’, nee Devlin DeFrancesco could take His pocketbook there?

 

For which perhaps, All of this will merely be conjecture by now? Although DJ WillyP’ politely told Ryan Marin on the winners podium at Portland that He wouldn’t know until after Nashville…

 

As Milwaukee turned into a day ‘O firsts Sunday. Beginning with Mexican Salvador de Alba scoring His maiden Indy NXT win, leading wire-to-wire! With Andretti Global claiming a clean sweep of the podium. Including runner-up Dennis Hauger securing the Indy NXT and Rookie Of the Year (ROY) Championships.

 

Then after Alex Palou had led a staggering 195 of 250 laps. A momentary light shower producing sprinkles on-track set the stage for a dramatic end to the Headliner’s event.

 

As Ed Carpenter Racing’s (ECR) Christian Rasmussen, who’d incurred a speeding penalty earlier, along with ECR teammate Alexander Rossi and others, bolted on fresh Firestone rubber.

 

Thus Rasmussen splendidly carved His way thru the field, making mincemeat of the competition. Before brazenly shooting past race leader Palou to lead the final 16 laps enroute to His first career IndyCar win!

 

As the victory was Oh, So Sweet for Rasmussen driving the Splenda car! Giving ECR its first IndyCar win since I believe Rinus VeeKay won on the IMS Road Course Wayback’ in 2021?

 

As Palou said Himself during His podium interview, Rasmussen simply had fresher rubber and Congrats to Him! With Rossi finishing a disappointed fourth. Giving ECR two Top-five finishes on the legendary Milwaukee Mile!

 

As how can you not be Happy seeing another first time winner in victory lane, Eh? As Congrats Christian Rasmussen! 

Silly Season with A Twist

And were not talking about Half Gainers, 360’s or Double Back Flips Here!

 

Suppose now that we’re well past the halfway mark of this year’s IndyCar season. Which it still Ain’t right that the season will wrap-up on Friggin’ August 31st! So those Clods with helmets and shoulder pads can collide with each other on the Gridiron, Spew!

 

And it being the first of August, perhaps some of this will now be superfluous? Although when I hastily began scrbblin’ this in mid-July. I felt there were five teams for certain with no driver moves for next year. With Arrow McLaren, Chip Ganassi Racing, Ed Carpenter Racing, Meyer Shank Racing and Prema Racing all seeming to keep their current lineups.

 

Whilst that means that the other six teams, i.e.; A.J. Foyt Enterprises, Andretti Global, Dale Coyne Racing, Juncos Hollinger Racing, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and Team Penske had possible “vacancies” or potential driver moves occurring.

 

Although I’m still flying Blind, thanks to Racer’s website not being screen reader compliant, Urgh! Forcing me to rely upon other new sources…

 

With the proclivity towards being obvious. The biggest potential Domino we’re waiting to find out what happens is DJ WillyP’, aka will Power of Team Penske, whose contract expires this year.

 

Know that scuttlebutt suggests that David Malukas will be His replacement, whom I’m a huge fan of. But I have to say I feel that my Numero Doce IndyCar driver has made far too many self inflicted mistakes this year driving for A.J. Foyt Enterprises. And that another season of “polishing” would be well suited for the Chicago lad.

 

Although somehow I doubt that Power’s looking for just a single year contract extension with Penske. While I know that David Land claimed there’s another team that’s given Power an offer. At least that’s what I think He said…

 

The other “big” name IndyCar team whose lineup seems unsettled right now is Andretti Global, with the possibility of having two thirds of its seats available? Since its long been Arse-sumed that Colton Herta will be the young American flying the flag for Cadillac when it enters formula 1 next year.

 

Although I tend to think the scuttlebutt is that Herta needs to finish fourth this season in order to secure the mandatory FIA Super Licence. Which currently being mired in ninth, with one podium prior to Toronto doesn’t help this cause.

 

Although Colton did start from pole in Toronto and finished fourth, when He most likely should have won. Except for the raft of cautions causing a million different strategies! With Herta moving up to eighth in the title fight.

 

Then finishing third at Laguna Seca saw Him move forward another spot to seventh, just two points behind sixth place Felix Rosenqvist. And just 44 markers behind fifth place Christian Lundgaard, with three races remaining…

 

And then there’s the speculation over how poor Marcus Ericsson’s sophomore campaign and time overall with Andretti Global is going, with the possibility of the affable Swede’s contract’s final year being bought out?

 

Of course the obvious choice for one of these seats would be Indy NXT rookie standout Dennis Hauger, who’s pretty much crushed the competition this year! With the exception of Andretti Global rookie teammate Lochie Hughes keeping Him Honest, when they’re not busy colliding!

 

As you’d have to think that Andretti Global is keen to keep both of these emerging talents in the “Family”. Even though there doesn’t seem to be that many opportunities for both of them in IndyCar next year.

 

The only other Indy NXT drivers possibly ready to graduate to IndyCar are Caio Collet and possibly Myles Rowe. Although both seem a stretch, with Rowe probably needing another year in the series.

 

Although Collet said don’t forget about me wit a clean sweep weekend in Monterey! Winning both Indy NXT races from pole and leading wire-to-wire.

 

Meanwhile, Portland’s Josh Pierson, whom I have no idea if He’s still an Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR) Development Driver? But He seems somewhat off the pace, and now in His third year in Indy NXT, it seems unlikely He’ll progress to IndyCar…

 

Although He did have a breakout weekend at Laguna Seca. As according to IndyCar’s Curt Cavin, Pierson netted His first two podium finishes after 32 races. Finishing third Saturday, and second on Sunday.

 

Interestingly, across thoust Gory Puddle, Netherlands Richard Verschoor led the FIA Formula 2 Championship points standings by six markers over American Jack Crawford: 122-116. As both drivers have three wins to date. Whilst Ireland’s Alex Dunne is in third place with 108 points; prior to Round 9 at Spa-Francorchamps.

 

As both Verschoor and Crawford dropped one position in the standings after netting zero points in Belgium. With Italy’s Leonardo Fornaroli vaulting into the lead after winning the Sprint race at Spa. Now on 125 points, while Dunne remains fourth, albeit just two markers adrift of Crawford.

 

Dunne, a rookie, is a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, while Crawford serves as a reserve driver for the Aston Martin’s F1 team, and is part of its Driver Development programme.

 

Now, I’m not suggesting this will happen, since it seems fairly far fetched to Mwah, But. What if the FIA refused Herta’s Super Licence application? And 20 year old Yank’ Crawford, whose netted five wins in F2 wins the Formula 2 title in His third season. Could Cadillac opt for Crawford instead?

 

Yet how could the FIA say that Herta’s not “qualified” for a Super Licence or worthy of racing in Formula 1?

 

As only time, and money will tell. Although as Sonny Hayes says in F1 the Movie, “Its Not about the Money!” Cough, cough…

 

Naturally, after I’d finished scribbling these riveting thoughts. The day after, ESPN Online Motorsports Headlines published a story about Jack Crawford saying it would be a major mistake if Cadillac overlooked Him if He wins the F2 title. Noting in the article that its His Manager’s job to keep Cad-Oh-Lac’ in the frame over Him…

 

While in typical No Nonsense Pato Who? Machismo style, O’Ward likened rumours of His moving to Cadillac F1 akin to Fernando Alonso and Taylor Swift “Hooking Up” last year, which we all know never happened. Nice one Pato!

 

As would IndyCar really be on the verge of going to Mexico City without the sport’s most popular driver? 

Alex Palou’s “Magical” season

As we All know Alex’s favourite word Amazing, Righto?

 

Although must say I was tempted to go with Magic Carpet Ride, Magical Mystery Tour or Magic Bus for my title to this riveting No Fenders prose.

 

Every week Palou, and 26 other drivers get in the Queue. “Too much Magic Bus”. Thank you Cheep’ for getting me Here. “Too much Magic Bus”. Your being Watched by the other Team Owners Have No Fear. “too much magic Bus” No! You cannot buy it Zak Brown!

 

Thanks to Racer’s website redesign which isn’t conducive to screen readers! If Y’all haven’t noticed, I’ve sort of tuned-out from IndyCar, Sports Cars and Der Weurld de Motorsporten lately, Ja-Ja!

 

As I hadn’t even listened to any of Marshall Pruett’s podcasts in over a month’s time, i.e.; sometime before this year’s 24 Heurs du Mans. As its just plain wrong that its been over two months now without being able to read Racer’s website, but I digress. And yes, I have contacted them about this matter…

 

Returning to the “Fold”, I tuned into Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar July 15th podcast, and was entertained as always with Marshall’s insight. Not to mention enjoying His enthusiasm for the sport. Since after all He should be quite the Jaded Motorsports reporter by now.

 

According to Marshall there were only four drivers ever in the history of IndyCar to win seven or more races in a season, for which I beg to differ after briefly reading a Sportskeeda article.

 

Although I fell Afoul to trying to read the article too quickly, and mistakingly gave Mikey A’ an extra W’ and podium that year, initially…

 

As Marshall just enthused over how “Amazing” Palou’s season is this year, having claimed then seven of the season’s first twelve races prior to Toronto. As Marshall just laughed in giddy, astonishing are you Freakin’ kiddin’ me uproarious laughter!

 

Whilst a rare “Strategery” mistake saw Palou miss out upon possible victory Up North eh!

 

Leaving me wanting to know who the other three drivers were? As Marshall only divulged what I thought was the latest driver to do so, for which I saw win one of His eight races Wayback in 1994 at Portland International Raceway. As ’94 was the year that ‘lil Al and Team Penske decimated CART! As Al Unser Jr. won eight times including that year’s Indianapolis 500 with the “Unfair Advantage” of the “Stock Block” Mercedes. And Penske drivers finishing 1-2-3 overall, with a total of 12 wins out of 16 races! With Emmerson Fittipaldi winning once and Paul Tracy three times; finishing second and third respectively.

 

Of course I could only guess one other drivers name, being the first ever to accomplish this feat, which Y’all may be able to guess? But I’m getting ahead of myself since we’re going in reverse order, due to total number of wins in a single IndyCar season, i.e.; lowest to highest, according to Sportskeeda’s Five IndyCar Drivers with Most Wins in A Season.

 

I also saw the second most recent driver to accomplish this feat, ditto at Portland. Where I have to say that Mikey A’ was the scourge ‘O Portland since I was then a ‘lil Al fan…

 

Michael Andretti tied His father’s feat of winning eight races during His lone championship winning 1991 season. Claiming a total of 11 podiums and eight poles during the 17 race season.

 

As that tally doesn’t include His winning the Marlboro Challenge event at Laguna Seca from pole. Seeing Michael win a total of nine IndyCar races that season.

 

As I actually saw a quarter of both Al Unser Jr’s and Michael’s wins those two championship seasons. Having also attended the Molson Indy Vancouver races Up North Eh!

 

SuperMario’, nee Mario Andretti won nine races in 1969. Arguably His best IndyCar season due to winning that year’s Indianapolis 500 for Andy Granatelli in the legendary Brawer Hawk.

 

And then the top two of this very exclusive category are also tied with an unbelievable 10 wins in a single season. For which I’d Arse-sume Y’all would guess ‘Ol SuperTex’, nee Anthony Joseph Foyt Jr. Righto? But can you name the other driver?

 

Yep, Big Al’ tied Foyt’s record in 1970 aboard arguably one of the most beautiful liveries of All-time. Driving the Johnny Lightning Special PJ Colt of Vels Parnelli Jones Racing. Which included the first of Al Unser Snr’s eventual four Indianapolis 500 victories. Along with back-to-back Indy 500 wins in 1970-71.

 

While A.J. Foyt needs no introduction, arguably thee GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time) IndyCar drivers who naturally set the record first, and the bar ultra high! Winning ten times in 1964, including that year’s Indianapolis 500. Foyt won 10 of 13 races that season, with only three DNF’s due to mechanical failures.

 

Ah, I love Zed Intrawoods’, since when I Googled most IndyCar wins in a season a second time, naturally I got a completely different answer. With Autoweek proclaiming there’s actually nine drivers to have won seven IndyCar races in a season. As why wouldn’t we expect both Foyt and Mario Andretti to have accomplished this more than once in their stellar IndyCar careers, Eh?

 

As Foyt also claimed seven wins in 1975, while Mario captured eight wins back-to-back, between 1966-67.

 

And then Thars’ a proverbial logjam at drivers with eight wins in a season, for which we already know about ‘lil Al and Mikey A’. But how could I overlook le Hamburgular’, aka Sealmeister B’, aka SeaBass’ or simply Sebastien Bourdais? As the master of Champ car won eight times in the series final season of 2007. Which naturally I can say, once again I saw Him win at Portland that year much to my chagrin. Being a loyal Justin Big Unit’ Wilson fan!

 

And how could Marshall forget His Buddy “French Fry?” As I do miss those Pruett and Bourdais wacky weekend race videos…

 

Then naturally who would know that Tony Bettenhausen also claimed eight wins during the 1951 season? Giving us four drivers in this rarefied domain. Before Palou joined this club with another crushing victory at Laguna Seca. Leading 84 of 95 laps enroute to His third win in four years at Monterey!

 

While we have to go all the way back to over a decade ago to Gory 1922, when Jimmy Murphy won seven races that season, including that year’s Indianapolis 500 Mile International Sweepstakes race.

 

While I’d have to say that Murphy’s accomplishment is probably the most impressive, since some of these wins came upon the diabolical Board tracks of the Day!

 

As my foggy memory said that the long defunct Tacoma Speedway Board track was part of that year’s AAA National Championship. Which indeed, Murphy began the fourth ‘O July Montemarathon 250 from pole, with arch nemesis Tommy Milton winning the race.

 

Yet I love Pruett’s enthusiasm for what Alex Palou has done this season. Making me want to “See” Alex get to at least eight wins this year, Mission Accomplished! Which puts Him into very “Heady company. Although like Marshall says, I don’t feel Palou is one of the sport’s “Great” IndyCar Drivers yet! And certainly not in Scott Dixon territory, whom with the second most IndyCar titles and wins, doesn’t even make this list of nine drivers, Crikeys!

 

Nine IndyCar Legends with the Most Wins in a Single Season

 

Can Palou win His ninth race of the season at Portland, where He’s won twice before? As you’ve gotta love Alex’s attitude when interviewed in victory lane about going for more wins? For Sure He bluntly stated!

 

My witty Magic Carpet Ride lyrical “Ditty” was inspired by The Who’s 1968 Magic Bus song. Which No, you still cannot buy it Zak! 

Two Championship leaders Stumble, A third Driver triumphs

As a forgotten Superhero finally Flex’s His Muscles! And its not Superman…

 

Yeah, this is old news, especially since IndyCar has just completed its Iowa Double Header weekend on the 0.875-mile Bullring (short track) Oval. Not to mention just returning from Up North eh! On the streets of Toronto…

 

Have to say that it was amusing to see both the IndyCar and Formula 1 Championship points leaders stumble at Mid-Ohio and Silverstone respectively, albeit both were self-inflicted wounds…

 

Having mused to myself that the race was over, when on lap 74 of 90, Alex Palou’s pit crew made the perfect stop with Strategist Barry Wanser’s superb call for Palou’s third pitstop enabling the Spaniard to beat Scott Dixon back on-track.

 

As Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) teammate Dixon was attempting to run the less preferred two stop strategy, being the master of fuel saving. But the race seemed over, as even the IMS Radio Network Booth boyz’ focused upon other “lesser” battles taking place further back in the pack. Tending to recall that Conor Daly and Rinus VeeKay got shout-outs. Which had nothing to do with Daly calling Santino Ferrucci a Clown!

 

Then the unthinkable happened with just five laps remaining, as Palou inexplicably slid offtrack at Turn 9, Hmm, who’s car number is that? And Dixon being 3.5 seconds behind said thank you very much Alex, Ole!

 

As thee Iceman 2.0 was not to be denied, even with Palou doing everything possible besides giving Dixon the Chrome Horn treatment the final four laps of the race, all to no avail! As Dixon became only the third different winner in IndyCar this season, with Honda having won all ten races to date. And if we include last year’s season finale at Nashville, Honda’s won 11 straight races, say what?

 

Dixon now has 59 career wins and has won an IndyCar race in  a record 21 consecutive seasons! Along with breaking Mario Andretti’s All-time IndyCar career starts tally of 407 upon making His 408th IndyCar start at this year’s Indianapolis 500, Aye Karumba!

 

Meanwhile, across thoust Gory Puddle, we all know what happened at Bloody Silverstone, during typical English summer weather. Before the skies fell down upon thee Pied Piper Chris Horner!

 

As race leader Oscar Piastri was penalized 10 seconds for braking erratically behind the Safety Car, with Max Verstappen almost colliding with Him! As Max pirouetted down to tenth place, before recovering to finish fifth.

 

As the penalty did seem harsh, albeit Sky Sports Pundit Martin Billybob’ Brundle seemed to think the penalty was warranted. Saying “they’ll” want to have a look at that, insinuating that Piastri had been too clever and indeed braked erratically. As McLaren would later divulge that Piastri had applied some 59.2psi braking force and somewhere else I read the Aussie’s speed plummeted from 218kph down to 52kph, Anchors Away!

 

Thus Piastri had to dejectedly settle for second place behind McLaren teammate Lando Norris, who was gifted victory at His home race, which I suppose is fitting for Formula 1 celebrating its 75th anniversary.

 

Thus Piastri’s points lead over Norris shrinks to eight, with Oscar leaving five wins to Lando’s four at the halfway point of the F1 season.

 

But I’m certain that both Palou and Piastri will learn from these mistakes and only become stronger in the future, an ominous sign for their competitions…

 

Yet for Mwah, the highlight of the weekend was The Incredible Hulk’, Err Hulkster’, nee Nico Hulkenberg claiming His first podium on His 239th start, the current Formula 1 record for most starts without a podium, Sheisa!

 

Hulkenberg had a meteoric rise thru Karting and Junior series with multiple championships, including the 2009 GP2 title; today’s formula 2 Championship, which he won as a rookie.

 

Williams signed the promising rookie for 2010. As its hard to believe I still remember Nico winning pole at the Brazilian Grand Prix 15 years ago. Which I tend to recall was done in the wet, under not ideal conditions.

 

Yet Nico would be replaced by Pastor Maldonado the following year at Williams, presumably bringing barrels full of Venezuelan PDVSA Oil money. Although Maldonado scored Williams last Grand Prix victory in 2013.

 

Hulkenberg became Force India’s reserve driver for 2011, contesting Friday practice sessions before promoted to a race seat the following year.

 

Having then raced for Sauber, Racing Point and Renault, before spending three years as Racing Point and Aston Martin’s reserve driver. Deputizing for Sergio Perez and Sebastian Vettel. Before a two year stint at Haas, joining previous Bosom Buddy Kevin Magnussen. As the Dane’ famously told Him to suck a part of His lower anatomy once!

 

As Hulkenberg replaced fellow German Mick Schumacher at Has, and then moved to Sauber this year, which will become the Audi Werks’ team for 2026.

 

Hulkenberg won the 2015 24 Heurs du Mans driving for Porsche. Something only He and Fernando Alonso have done as Formula 1 drivers the past decade.

 

Hulkenberg’s podium is the first for Sauber since K-Squared’, aka Kamui Kobayashi finished third at the 2012 Japanese Grand Prix.

 

While it was wonderful reading how truly excited Alonso was for Hulkenberg. While Carlos Sainz Jr said He’d known that Nico has always been a top-five driver. Just never had the equipment to prove it.

 

As I’m guessing that even Magnussen would be happy for Him… 

Talking “Tech” with Tino Belli

Although the Dallara DW12 Ain’t going anywhere soon…

 

Back when I could easily read Racer’s website before the maligned Racer 2.0 launch of its graphically laden website on May  12th. Which doesn’t conform to WCAG 2.2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards, Urgh! Which reputedly Racer’s working to rectify. Although I’ve been holding my breath for several weeks now, eagerly awaiting its update, chirp-Chirp, Bueller?

 

As the website’s got other issues or bugs to iron out, which I doubt will happen, but I digress…

 

Marshall Pruett’s story Wayback’ in March regarding Tino Belli being called upon to “Beautify” the next generation Dallara IndyCar, has a very interesting podcast associated with it.

 

As Pruett spent nearly 90mins talking with Belli Wayback’ in 2018 after the introduction of the UAK 18, i.e.; Universal Aero Kit, which being unable to “See”, know it’s vastly superior to those dreaded, and thankfully forgotten about Chevy v Honda Aero Kit Wars of 2015-17.

 

As it’s a great interview worth listening too…

 

IndyCar turns to Tino Belli to enhance looks of next Chassis

 

Reading between the proverbial tea leaves, it sounded to Mwah that IndyCar is planning on sticking with just presenting a “warmed” over updated version of the current Dallara DW12 as the next generation IndyCar, with Belli leading the design of its aesthetics…

 

Yet we all know that on Friday of this year’s Road America IndyCar race weekend, IndyCar and IMS leader Doug Boles announced that IndyCar would be debuting the long awaited next generation chassis in 2028.

 

The racecar will once again be produced by Dallara, targeting to be 85-100lbs lighter. Which basically gets back to pre-Hybrid, Err Energy Recovery system (ERS) weight, since the ERS added an ungainly 100lbs to the DW12’s rear!

 

Xtrac, the current gearbox supplier will continue in this role, providing a new 25lbs lighter unit that shares components with the Indy NXT chassis, for those running in both series.

 

While current brake supplier Performance Friction Corporation (PFC) will continue as sole supplier of braking systems.

 

A new ergonomic cockpit will be utilized, including the integration of the Aeroscreen, which was an “Add-on” component to the current DW12 chassis.

 

On the power side, the new racecar will get the previously announced 2.4-litre V-6 twin turbocharged lumps’, ergo Internal Combustion Engine. (ICE) Replete with ERS, albeit the Hybrid unit will feature more power and improved performance…

 

As you’d like to Arse-sume this new “clean-sheet” chassis design will allow for better weight distribution, leading to better handling and better performance overall.

 

Track testing of the new Dallara chassis will commence in 2026, and then once again, all teams will have to buy brand new racecars for the 2028 IndyCar season, when the venerable 15yr old DW12 is finally retired!