Weekend Herald

IndyCars approach finale

- IndyCars, Monday 5.30am.

Pitting Formula One against IndyCars continues to evoke plenty of discussion. In straight line speed, there is no doubt F1 is faster, but given their bigger engines, that is no surprise. Elsewhere, there are other difference­s. For example, F1 cars carry all the fuel they need, with refuelling during a race forbidden under current rules. IndyCars will pit several times during a race to take on fuel and change tyres. Pit strategy and technique are thus more critical in IndyCars than F1. IndyCars are more robust; F1 cars would last only a few laps on a track like the Brickyard at the Indianapol­is Motor Speedway. IndyCars were founded in 1994 and began racing as the Indy Racing League in 1996. Initially they raced solely on oval tracks. In 2005, three street circuits were introduced, and by

2009, there was a 50-50 split. Nowadays only a third of races are on ovals. IndyCars is owned by Hulman and Company, who also own the Indianapol­is Motor Speedway Complex. They made their money from manufactur­ing baking powder in the 19th century and these days it still goes under the name of Clabber Girl. Heading into the

14th race (of 17) on this year's schedule, the IndyCar Series at Pocono, Kiwi Scott Dixon leads Alexander Rossi by 46 points, with Josef Newgarden 14 points further back.

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