The Arizona Republic

What’s new at ISM Raceway

-

Start/finish line: With all four turns renumbered, it’s been moved to just before the dogleg. What was Turn 3 is now Turn 1, and so forth.

Why it’s big: Could be the scene of major mayhem, especially on late-race restarts. Most of the cars will still be in Turn 4 when the green flag waves while the leaders will have to go side-by-side in the dogleg. Those right behind them might steer hard left onto the apron, creating the possibilit­y of 4-or-more wide going into Turn 2.

Cactus starter: A 25 x 13-foot lighted structure mounted to the starter’s flagstand.

Why it’s big: The Raceway’s signature visual element is synced to NASCAR race control, and will be lit green, yellow or red along with all other track lights to alert drivers to track conditions.

Pit stalls: Relocated to inside Turn 3 through Turn 4.

Why it’s big: Drivers will have to adjust, and avoid pit-lane speeding penalties, after pitting mostly on old front straightaw­ay for years.

INfield: New garages, offices, meeting room and victory lane for the Monster Energy Cup, Xfinity and Camping World Truck Series competitor­s.

Why it’s big: INfield wristband buyers will have more access to the drivers and cars than ever before. Fans can step inside the Cup garage and gather around victory lane to celebrate with the winners.

Grandstand­s: 42,000 stadium-style seats with seat backs and cup holders.

Why it’s big: The track says it’s the first motorsport­s facility to have Wi-Fi throughout the venue.

Tunnel: Easy pedestrian access from midway area to INfield.

Why it’s big: Miller Lite Beer Garden and Modern Margarita tequila bar inside.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States