Tire management and race strategy will be crucial factors in this weekend's 65-lap IndyCar Grand Prix at The Thermal Club, with teams facing unique challenges on the 3.067-mile circuit.

The demanding track surface accelerates tire wear, forcing drivers to balance preservation with competitive lap times. Arrow McLaren's Pato O'Ward emphasizes that strategy decisions will likely determine the race outcome more than outright speed.

Last year's non-championship event provided insights, with drivers conserving tires during the first 10-lap heat to maintain grip for the final segment. For 2025, Firestone brings enhanced tire options:

• Six sets of harder primary compounds per car
• Four sets of softer alternate compounds (new for Thermal)

Key challenges for teams include:

• Managing the new primary and alternate tire compounds
• Adapting to the 105-pound heavier hybrid powertrain
• Navigating expected high temperatures (up to 89°F)
• Executing a likely three-stop strategy with 15+ lap stints

Defending champion Alex Palou's success at Thermal in 2024 came from a combination of tire-friendly driving style and optimal chassis setup. Team Penske's Tim Cindric anticipates track position will be critical, as passing opportunities are limited.

Mike Hull, Chip Ganassi Racing's managing director, suggests the winner will be determined by who best manages primary tire life throughout the stints, similar to the season opener at St. Petersburg.

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