RACER Mailbag: IndyCar Engineer Moves, Fan Questions for January 22

RACER Mailbag: IndyCar Engineer Moves, Fan Questions for January 22

By Michael Harrison

January 23, 2025 at 12:21 AM

Race fans are increasingly seeking thrilling, cutting-edge motorsport experiences. IndyCar faces several key challenges that need addressing to remain competitive and relevant:

Key Personnel Changes

  • Mike Cannon's departure from PREMA was reportedly due to the team ignoring his input
  • Multiple team owners are interested in acquiring his services
  • High turnover of engineers, technicians and managers in recent years

Technical Evolution Needed

  • Current cars need modernization
  • Recommendations include:
    • 200-pound weight reduction
    • Increased power output
    • New state-of-the-art chassis
    • Focus on maintenance efficiency

Strategic Improvements Required

  • Leadership needs younger perspective (40s-50s vs 70s-80s)
  • Expansion opportunities:
    • Additional Canadian race
    • Mexican market (leveraging Pato O'Ward's popularity)
    • South American events
  • FOX partnership and Dallas event show promise

Driver Development

  • Benjamin Pedersen's situation with Foyt highlights challenges:
    • Contract issues and budget constraints affected program
    • Limited opportunity to demonstrate potential
    • Better team placement could yield improved results

Moving forward, IndyCar must balance tradition with innovation while taking calculated risks to grow its audience and maintain competitive racing. The series needs bold leadership decisions to evolve beyond its current conservative approach.

Race fans watching from grandstands

Race fans watching from grandstands

Related Articles

Previous Articles