IndyCar, World Cup and lot’s of smoke

Is the World Cup over yet?

 

“Heard it in a love song, Heard it in a love song, Heard it in a love song, Can't be wrong”

 

VIDEO: Heard It In a Love Song

 

It takes news a long time to reach thoust mystical Isle ‘O Nofendersville. First the Pony Express riders must stop to water their Horses, and then they have to paddle by canoe, Oh Never Mind!

 

I first began hearing whispers that thee Cat’, aka Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) was leaving Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) Wayback on June 24th.

 

Then I realized I hadn’t listened to a Marshall Pruett The Week in IndyCar podcast in ages. And late to the party, I tuned into His June 25th episode five days later, and Shazam!

 

Pruett mentioned how His Head was about to explode over the fluidity of Silly Season during the Road America race weekend. (June 19-21) Saying one source He trusts had told Him next year’s McLaren lineup will be Pato O’Ward, Felix Rosenqvist and Scott Dixon. And don’t be surprised if two or more Key team personnel from Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) also defect, Err go to Mclaren.

 

Pruett said Zackery’ Brown isn’t exactly the most liked person in the paddock, but He sees Browns tactics similar to what losing NFL teams do after every Super bowl. When the winning team’s assistant coaches are hired as new Head Coaches and unprotected players go to new teams. And Dixon’s true value would be bringing infinite knowledge of how CGR ticks and what makes them the current Super bowl Champions.

 

Interesting angle upon Rosenqvist’s departure. Saying that after winning the Indy 500 you’d have thought MSR would have made it either known or a priority to “lock-up” Felix’s contract extension. But MSR apparently never reached out to the Cat while His phone was blowing up from other teams. And Felix apparently felt “unwanted” at MSR and took a “better” offer…

 

Then the following day,  read Marshall Pruett’s July 1st Silly Season update. Stating  that sources have now confirmed the Dixon to Mclaren rumour as being a done Dealio, along with the Cat’s arrival. Noting how having Rosenqvist, the current Indy 500 winner and Dixon gives endless marketing and sponsorship opportunities. Not to mention a greater shot at winning the coveted Borg Warner trophy.

 

Yet immediately afterwards, I had a different take on the situation. McLaren’s “Golden Boy” (Pato) O’Ward is simply getting shown-up by Lundgaard this year. So perhaps to keep Pato happy. Who after all is the series most popular driver. (And face of Arrow McLaren) Which I’m guessing translates into sponsorship dinero, ci? Zakery Brown decided to jettison Lundgaard in favour of Pato’s best buddy the Cat? Just a thought…

 

Having connected the dots prior to the Mid-Ohio IndyCar weekend and Arrow McLaren’s Charm offensive led by Team Principal Tony Kanaan. For which my thought was confirmed when Kanaan reportedly Bear Hugged O’Ward after winning the race in victory lane. Need I say more?

 

Suppose if I really think about it, you could “see” Lundgaard’s perceived flaws upon His behaviour when celebrating His maiden IndyCar win at Toronto three years ago. Having shaved off His mustache and crowing like the second coming after the victory. Which I recall reading or hearing somewhere about how Bobby Rahal was rolling His eyes over Lundgaard’s celebratory “antics”.

 

Yet Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing hadn’t won a race in three years, and hasn’t won since!

 

And whatever you think of Lundgaard, who definitely is a talented driver. All I can hear in my head is Alexander Rossi’s famous Quip about “I’m not here to make Friends!”

 

From Marshall’s July 7th podcast, I came to the conclusion that Lundgaard’s best landing spot will be Andretti global. Yet ten days later during the Nashville weekend, it  sounded pretty certain that an extension for Marcus Ericsson was imminent– and may have already happened?

 

While its also obvious that with McLaren’s Sports Car programmes around the Globe. They give both Rosenqvist and Dixon longer runways for their racing careers…

 

Meanwhile, and I’m happy for IndyCar and FOX. But it bothers me over how much noise is being made over the massive TV ratings increase. Since its got nothing to do with IndyCar itself, just casual Fans sticking round after World Cup Football matches instead…

 

FOX uses World Cup to push IndyCar TV ratings to 15 year High

 

Meaning what will next year’s “true” IndyCar ratings look like? And are sponsors really drinking this Kool-Aid?

 

Yet even if Nashville had happened as planned and gathered it’s massive TV ratings trove. Momentum would have been killed by the three weeks break following Nashville, Yawn!

 

While the Silly Season spicket is wide open now, with far too much to scribble here! Other than during Nashville, Thars’ two seats available at Coyne, Foyt and Juncos Hollinger Racing. With one seat available at Andretti, Ganassi, Meyer Shank Racing and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

 

Although I’ve already mentioned above, I think there’s no vacancies at Andretti Global. Then IndyCar Radio’s Davey Hamilton said Mick Schumacher’s out of a ride at Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, (RLLR) who are selling their third IndyCar Charter. With plenty more Silly Season fodder to scribble about in another riveting No Fenders story…

 

Partial song lyrics from The Marshall Tucker Band’s Heard It In a Love Song; 1977 Carolina Dreams Album. 

Has IndyCar’s Silly Season finally Started?

As it sure seems like it ramped-up at Road America…

 

During the Gateway weekend, IndyCar Radio spent the entire weekend saying how one of IndyCar’s Silly Season Drivers had been taken off the board. With the announcement of Christian Rasmussen’s contract extension at ECR. Arse-sumedly the standard two year “multi-year” contract.

 

Have to say my level of following IndyCar and motor racing in general has taken a dip this season, so I’m outta the loop on latest rumours.

 

Initially, I  only knew of three drivers who were out of contract at season’s end, i.e.; Josef Newgarden, Marcus Ericsson and Nolan Siegel. While thought I heard on Marshall Pruett’s podcast that Marcus Armstrong’s contract is up? While noting that Rinus VeeKay has a one year Dealio’ with Juncos Hollinger Racing, with an option for a second year. But Marshall claimed He didn’t know who got to trigger the extension; team or driver?

 

Have read scuttlebutt suggesting that Newgarden wants out of Team Penske, which seems very strange to me. As nobody leaves Penske; Penske dismisses the drivers instead. Although I suppose you could say that DJ WillyP’ walked away from Team Penske. But only after they didn’t seem to want to keep Will Power anymore…

 

If true, and I’m having a hard time believing this, obviously the vacant Team Penske seat would be the biggest seat available on the grid. So I guess that Newgarden would be the biggest domino waiting to fall.

 

Second biggest is Marcus Ericsson’s plight of remaining at Andretti global. As I’ve long thought that some who call Him the “Norwegian Nightmare”, aka Dennis Hauger’s current Dale Coyne Racing adventure is just a tune-up before joining the Andretti Mothership.

 

Yet Pruett made a compelling argument for Andretti Global standing pat with the Swede, who was ninth in the championship at the halfway point. (Gateway) So does Andretti Global give Ericsson a one year extension? And Hauger remain with Coyne a second year?

 

Definitely feel that Nolan Siegel’s time at Arrow McLaren will come to an end, especially with Tony Kanaan having said He needed to finish tenth in this year’s championship.

 

Believe I read/heard something making me wonder about McLaren Formula 1 reserve driver Leonardo Fornaro waiting in the wings?

 

Reportedly, the reigning FIA Formula 2 champion will test an McLaren IndyCar after season’s end, when driver evaluation testing days can take place. Although team principal tony Kanaan said don’t read too much into it, Fornaro’s focus if Formula 1. But TK’ would like to see how Fornaro handle’s an IndyCar…

 

Forgot that Christian Lundgaard’s also out of contract at season’s end. But this one seems a slam dunk for staying at Arrow McLaren. (Especially after His second win of the season at Road America) As it just Mwah who finds it interesting the team shifted master strategist Kyle Moyer onto Lundgaard’s timing stand this season from Siegel’s car…

 

Then I suppose Romain Grosjean at Coyne could be on a one year contract? And Junco’s Sting Ray Robb seemingly is on a year-to-year deal. But I have zero clue who’s available or will potentially fill these seats? Especially since I’m awaiting Marshall Pruett’s next Silly Season installment like many…

 

Shazam! Tuning into IndyCar Radio’s Friday first IndyCar practice session from Road America, Mark Gravelly’ James brought up Pruett’s June 19th Silly Season article apparently making waves in the IndyCar paddock.

 

Michael Young talked to Arrow McLaren Team Principal Tony Kanaan on the subject, who was totally uncomittal – saying He’s just focused on winning and the weekend. But He’s been in that position before and wants to help everybody…

 

Along with Team Penske’s Tim Cindric; ScottyMac’s (McLaughlin) Strategist. With cindric’s answer being the best. Noting how a long time ago He learned to not believe everything you read.

 

Yet the babble over Newgarden wanting “Out” of Team Penske seems to be picking up momentum, as I’ve now had a second person tell me this rumor…

 

While obviously, only time will tell how close to the mark Pruett’s June report was? With the biggest gossip being over Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) on the move, most likely to Andretti Global as Marcus Ericsson’s replacement.

 

Not to mention apparently big changes taking place over the ownership structure of Juncos Hollinger Racing, so stay tuned Race Fans!

 

Then after having put this story to “bed”, naturally news broke Wednesday (June 24th) that MSR had officially confirmed Rosenqvist’s departure from the team at season’s end. With Felix headed either to Andretti Global or Arrow McLaren… 

MOTO GP: The forgotten Championship?

Move over Pinball wizard’, Thars’ a new Italian threat on the Hunt!

 

Ticking over the one quarter mark of the 2026 MotoGP season, I thought I’d finally get round to reviewing the season’s start. Although just thru Round 5’s French Grand Prix.

 

Since after all, France becomes the racing epicenter in June. At some place called Le Mans. With the MotoGP event taking place upon its Seester’ track…

 

Although pretty sure that ‘Ol Ettore Bugatti would be rolling over at my use of Seester’ nomenclature…

 

Surprisingly, the 2026 MotoGP grid remains largely unchanged, with the exception of two riders. Being the additions of Diogo Moreira and Toprak Razgatlioglu.

 

22 year old Brazilian Moreira is the reigning Moto2 champion. Replacing Somkiat Chantra at Pro Honda LCR.

 

29 year old Razgatlioglu. from Turkey, the reigning three-times Superbike’s champion. Replaces Miguel Oliveira at Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP.

 

With only three riders being replaced due to injures to date. As VK8 Gresini Racing’s Fermin Aldeguer broke His leg during training, and was replaced by Ducati Corse test rider Michele Pirro in Thailand.

 

Then at Circuit Of The Americas, (COTA) Maverick “Top gun” Vinales, also known as Batman withdrew after practice due to a loose screw in His shoulder.

 

Uhm, a screw from His previous injury in Germany last year was inflicting pain and caused Vinales to not race at Austin…

 

Undergoing further surgery, Vinals had hoped the extended break in the MotoGP calendar would allow Him to be ready for Jerez. But the Spaniard wasn’t deemed medically fit for His home race.

 

Adding insult to injury, substitute rider Pol Espargaro suffered a hand injury prior to Jerez, leaving the Red Bull Tech 3 KTM squad with just Enea Bastianini competing, before Vinales was replaced by Jonas Folger for the French Grand Prix.

 

Yet through the French Grand Prix on the Bugatti circuit, the rider who’s been fairly untouchable was Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi! As the Italian began the season where He’d left off, scoring His third MotoGP win in-a-row; following last year’s triumphs at Portimoa and Valencia.

 

Bezzecchi “Blitzed” the field in Thailand, and comfortably won ahead of Pedro Acosta by 5.5 seconds. While the Aprilia RS-GP26 is now clearly the Scooter’ to beat! With Aprilia claiming four of the top five spots. With Bezzecchi’s teammate thee Martinator’, nee Jorge Martin sandwiched between Trackhouse’s Raul Fernandez (third) and Ai Ogura. (fifth)

 

After passing polesitter Fabio Di Giannantonio in Brazil, Bezzecchi motored off to His fourth win in-a-row. Only the fifth rider to do so; behind Valentino Rossi, Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Francesco Bagnaia.

 

Martin finished second, giving the factory Aprilia squad a 1-2 finish at Autodromo Internacional Ayrton Senna.

 

Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) saw Bezzecchi continuing His domination of MotoGP, claiming a fifth successive victory on the trot, with Martin runner-up again. While Ogura’s Aprilia “done blown Up!” With five laps remaining when in third.

 

“Watching”, Err listening to the Spanish Grand Prix highlights, the announcers screamed Oh No! Marc Marquez has crashed out again! As Marquez was chasing His younger brother Alex who was leading. With Alex snapping Bezzecchi’s win streak with His second win at home in Jerez, the second year in-a-row.

 

Also hearing that it was a belated 30th birthday present to the Spanish rider, with Bezzecchi settling for second.

 

Yet obviously, the biggest “Star” rider to suffer another injury was Marc Marquez at Le Mans Bugatti circuit! Crashing heavily during the Saturday Sprint race, Marquez suffered a broken foot. Then having surgery for both the foot and His shoulder. Removing two damaged screws from a previous surgery.

 

As the reigning MotoGP champion will miss the next few rounds, albeit no idea how long His recovery will take?

 

Listening to the highlights of this year’s French Grand Prix, with no idea Marc Marquez was out. Aprilia made history by claiming its first ever podium lock-out. With Jorge Martin hunting down Aprilia teammate Marco Bezzecchi and winning for the first time in 588 days! The Martinator’s las W’ being at Indonesia in 2024…

 

Bezzecchi had to settle for second, with Trackhouse Racing’s Ai Ogura third. Hearing that it was the First “Dry” podium for a Japanese rider since 2006! And first podium since 2012 “Wet” race.

 

Shinya Nakano was the rider at the 2006 Dutch GP. While Katsuyuki Nakasuga was the rider at the 2012 Grand Prix of Valencia. With both finishing second.

 

Yet what totally baffled me, was hearing the Announcer saying thee Martinator and Ogura very well may become Yamaha’s factory lineup next year, say What?

 

Apparently the door opens for Martin with Fabio Quartararo moving to Honda. And reportedly Francesco Pecco’ Bagnaia will take Martin’s Aprilia seat…

 

Although I cannot fathom why Martin would wish to leave Aprilia, since they’re the bike to have. Although I was totally unaware that next year MotoGP will move to its new 850cc format.

 

Whilst Martin had tried wriggling out of His Aprilia contract a year early last season. So who knows, will Jorge once again take the No. 1 plate to a new manufacturer, a la 2024?

 

Obviously, not if Marco Bezzecchi has anything to say about it! 

IndyCar’s Off Season News Spicket keeps Squirting into December

But good thingy’ its not Maple syrup. Especially since Thars’ Bloody Tarif’s upon its Big, Bwutiful’ Maple syrup, Oh Never Mind! Uhm, pass the syrup…

 

Naturally, once again after I’d finished my last round of belated IndyCar News, Wayback’ on November 19^th; in the following linke below, Shazam!

 

More Belated Driver news

 

Juncos Hollinger Racing (JHR) confirmed what most of us were expecting. One day after Mick Schumacher and company tested upon Mother Speedway’s road course. JHR announced Rinus VeeKay as its new lead driver for 2026, replacing Conor Daly. With Marshall Pruett noting that VeeKay was only confirmed for 2026, with many coveted “top” IndyCar cockpit openings for 2027.

 

While there was also no mention of Sting Ray Robb, whose manager Peter Rossi keeps banging on about His two year contract. Yet I’d say perhaps they should look at how Callam Ilott’s contractual obligations went at JHR. Not to mention forgotten Argentinian Augustin Canapino’s premature dismissal…

 

Yet I had a strange thought upon what appears to be a sideways move for VeeKay going to JHR. Perhaps Dale Coyne was unwilling to give Rinus a one year extension and allow Him to test the water in 2027?

 

Since I tend to recall Coyne not allowing Sebastien Bourdais to exit DCR early in order to move to Chip Ganassi Racing. Forcing le Hamburgular’ to stay put at the Coyne with Vasser Sullivan Racing outfit instead, just Sayin’.

 

Meanwhile, as of the October 13th IMS road course test. You’d have to say with A.J. Foyt Enterprises testing Indy NXT runner-up Caio Collet a second time, He seemed to be a pretty good favourite to remain in the No. 4 He piloted during the test outing next year.

 

As Foyt confirmed the 23yr old Brazilian as its second driver on November 6th, with Collet piloting its No. 4 entry.

 

Having subsequently learned that Collet is a former Alpine Academy member, albeit totally overshadowed by Oscar Piastri. With Collet toiling in F3 between 2019-22, before moving Stateside.

 

The No. 4 Foyt entry sounds quite colourful. Being backed by Combitrans Amazonia, a Brazilian transport company. And sporting the Brazilian hues of green, blue and yellow next year.

 

Will Power, who sits in limbo due to Team Penske refusing to release Him before the end of the year, knocked off some of the rust by racing at Mother Speedway. But more upon that later.

 

Although I did spot His name mentioned in the GTD ranks during the Nov 14-16 Daytona IMSA test session…

 

Also dabbling in Sports cars. Meyer Shank Racing’s Marcus Armstrong made the trip home to race alongside His Pops’. With Marcus joining father Rick in the South Island Endurance Series season finale. With the pair sharing a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car in the three hour “Enduro” at Highland Motorsports Park.

 

And if Romain Grosjean does return to Coyne next year, it won’t be with former race engineer Olivier Boisson. As the Frenchman signed with Arrow Mclaren to become its new Head of Dampers, joining the growing cadre of former Tony Kanaan colleagues…

 

Exiting Stage Left, Err Arrow McLaren was Brian Barnhart and Kyle Sagan. Both moving to Rahal Letterman Lanigan racing, (RLLR) whom Barnhart’s worked previously with Jay Frye; when both worked for IndyCar.

 

As Barnhart becomes the team’s Senior VP of Operations, and will also serve as Graham Rahal’s Race Strategist.

 

Sagan becomes the team’s Pit Stop Manager, a role He’s held at Chip Ganassi Racing and Arrow McLaren previously. As RLLR seeks to improve in this area…

 

Meanwhile, arguably the Hottest driver on the potential 2027 Free Market has taken Himself off the board. With Kyle Kirkwood signing a multi-year contract extension to remain at Andretti Global.

 

As Pruett muses how His boy “Kirk” (Kirkwood) is a bit of a throwback, ‘Ol School type of driver. Choosing to remain loyal to those who’ve helped Him get where He is.

 

As Kirkwood’s also remained loyal with Vasser Sullivan Racing’s IMSA GTD Pro program as its Endurance “Specialist” the past six years. After the team threw Him a lifeline to stay active during the COVID-19 cancellation of Indy Lights in 2020.

 

As I especially enjoyed the part about Kirkwood taking those of His crew  available, and their families for a Caribbean Fishing trip. Well done Kyle!

 

As this leave only the No. 6 Arrow Mclaren as the biggest opportunity ride-wise for 2027, since I still think Dennis Hauger’s being prepped for the No. 28 Andretti Global ride. Along with Arse-suming David Malukas has a multi-year contract aboard the No. 12 Team Penske entry.

 

Making me think that the 2027 Silly Season won’t be that silly. But then again, neither was this year’s 2026 supposed to be as Silly as it became!

 

Lastly, just learned that RLLR has become the new “Service” provider for McLaren in IMSA GTD Pro next year, and will campaign a single McLaren 720s, with plans to increase to a two car entry in 2027.

 

As the team will run the No. 59 next season for the start of its multi-year arrangement. With the number paying homage to McLaren’s 24 Heurs du Mans victory in 1995.

 

Then upon November 20th, RLLR announced that former Team Penske Engineer and Arrow McLaren Team Principal Gavin Ward has signed to work for them, starting off with the loose title of Special Advisor.

 

Thus, just prior to Thanksgiving, we found ourselves with just two seats still “available” for next year, i.e.; Dale Coyne Racing and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. With the possibility of the second Juncos Hollinger Racing seat of Sting Ray Robb’s potentialy available… 

Some Belated Driver News

As Racing Never Sleeps…

 

Happy to “read” about Theo Pourchaire being elevated as a fulltime Peugeot Factory Sports car driver for 2026. With the 2023 Formula 2 Champion and ex-McLaren IndyCar driver making His fulltime debut at Bahrain’s season finale.

 

With Pourchaire taking over for the outgoing Stoffel Vandoorne, who’s Peugeot contract expired after this year’s Fuji FIA World Endurance Championship round.

 

As Pourchaire will join Nick, Not David Cassidy as new Peugeot 9X8 Prototype Pilotes. Whilst scuttlebutt suggest that Vandoorne may become one of Hyundai’s Genesis Magma Racing Hypercar drivers…

 

Meanwhile, I enjoyed the article about Conor Daly’s efforts to remain with Juncos Hollinger Racing’s (JHR) IndyCar programme for 2026.

 

As Daly said He’s busy as always trying to procure the necessary sponsorship to remain in the seat. But the part that intrigued me most. Was Conor noting that He knows All of the other Playahs’ (drivers) trying to take His seat at JHR. Which is why He’s busy talking to everyone left with a potential IndyCar seat for next year.

 

With the number of available seats shrinking quickly. Since Sting Ray Robb’s manager Peter Rossi. Yes, that’s Alexander’s father, says that Robb is confirmed returning to JHR next year.

 

Meaning that just Dale Coyne’s two seats and one each at JHR, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and Prema Racing are unconfirmed. Or at least they were when I hastily scribbled this Wayback’ in September…

 

As the worst kept secret was finally made official on Thursday, September 18th. That being David Malukas taking over the No. 12 Team Penske drive formerly occupied by will Power.

 

Whilst the rumoured appointment of Rinus VeeKay as Malukas’s replacement at A.J. Foyt enterprises was apparently “Fake News!” With Rinus no longer expected landing there.

 

Meaning you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to discern He’ll either land at Juncos Hollinger racing, (JHR) or Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. (RLLR) With scuttlebutt suggesting it won’t be in the No. 30 Rahal entry…

 

So thars’ potentially still five seats in play, providing JHR does something “wild ‘n Crazy” and doesn’t take Sting Ray Robb’s suitcases of Greenbacks’. While perhaps Coyne has surprised us all by already naming one of His drivers? 

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…

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? 

Alpine Swaps Drivers

But they weren’t trading Barbs like two Others were!

 

Following the finish of the Qatar Grand Prix, Alpine F1 severed its contract with Esteban Ocon, making way for the Frenchman to participate in the post-Abu Dhabi Grand Prix test session with His new team, Haas. For which Ocon posted on His Instagram account that He hadn’t wanted it to end this way…

 

Yet lost in all of the hubbub surrounding Bosom buddies Max and George. Arse-sumedly is graduate Alpine F1 Academy driver, and current reserve driver Jack Doohan making His Formula 1 race debut at this weekend’s season finale Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

 

The 21yr old Aussie’ Doohan has scored a total of six wins and five poles during His two seasons in Formula 2 between 2022-23. Including winning from pole on Yas Isle in His final F2 race outing.

 

What interests me most is Racer’s Chris Medland noting that this perhaps is a tryout towards seeing if Doohan will indeed be racing for the Alpine F1 Team next year in earnest?

 

Even though He’s been announced as Pierre Gasly’s teammate for next season. Apparently there’s still the possibility of Franco Colapinto replacing Doohan?

 

Although Colapinto’s stock has taken a hit due to His abundance of crashes lately. Which ironically is why Williams jettisoned Logan Sargeant…

 

As this race outing allows Jack Doohan time to prepare for His Formula 1 career before racing Down Under at Melbourne for the start of next year’s F1 season, where you’d Arse-sume He’ll be under much media scrutiny – being His home race.

 

And yes, Jack is the son of five-times (MotoGP) GP500 World Champion Mick Doohan.

 

So keep an eye out for car number seven, since I’m pretty sure the Aussie’ will be overlooked this weekend. With the media focusing upon that “Yapping little Terrier” instead, Hya!