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USA Today
5 days ago
- Automotive
- USA Today
Pato O'Ward calls for IndyCar to ditch the hybrid due to zero benefit
Pato O'Ward calls for IndyCar to ditch the hybrid due to zero benefit In 2024, the NTT IndyCar Series introduced a new hybrid system that changed the on-track product. It has been very controversial since its debut with the drivers and fans not being shy about their thoughts. The racing on track has suffered due to the hybrid system and one of IndyCar's most popular drivers has had enough. Following the first Indianapolis 500 with the hybrid system, McLaren driver Pato O'Ward spoke to Marshall Pruett about the recent issues. O'Ward didn't hold back and is calling for IndyCar to make changes. 'The reason why we keep seeing the restarts being so...I don't even think chaotic reaches the right wording for what we've seen. But, just so desperate is because of the fact that that is your only chance to get multiple positions,' O'Ward said to RACER. "Doesn't matter how good your car is. You know when you make positions now, it's in the restarts by just placing your car somewhere where someone else didn't, and just hoping to God that nothing goes wrong. And by strategy, just having maybe like an overcut. That's how you saw [Ryan Hunter-Reay], [Marcus Ericsson], make their way up while [Conor Daly] was slowing the whole field down, fuel saving." 'I feel like, in all honesty, the hybrid has brought zero benefit to the series in every way, shape and form. I know they're trying to get a third manufacturer. But in my most humble and honest opinion, I believe IndyCar should trust their own history." IndyCar's on-track product has suffered and the drivers are well aware that it's not the same as the past. The hybrid system has only been in place for one year, but it may not have a long tenure in the sport. IndyCar drivers are fed up, and the sport might be forced into making changes sooner rather than later. More: Jimmie Johnson wants Kyle Larson to keep attempting 'The Double'
USA Today
18-03-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
Katherine Legge could attempt 'The Double' in the next couple of years
Katherine Legge could attempt 'The Double' in the next couple of years Katherine Legge made her NASCAR Cup Series debut at Phoenix Raceway, but it may not be her last race of the 2025 season. According to FOX Sports' Bob Pockrass, Legge hopes to run more Cup Series races in 2025. However, could one of those events come on the same day as the Indianapolis 500 in late May? Legge has been linked to an attempt at the 2025 Indianapolis 500 while expressing interest to compete in the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600 earlier in the year. If NASCAR were to approve the 44-year-old driver for oval tracks larger than one mile, an entry into the Coca-Cola 600 could be a possibility. It is important to note that Legge told Marshall Pruett earlier in 2025 that there are no solid plans for that scenario yet. If Legge can solidify her plans, she could join Kyle Larson as two drivers attempting "The Double" at the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in 2025. Legge's approval to race in the Cup Series has been controversial, but with one race under her belt, it could be enough for NASCAR to allow more events. If not, Legge could compete in more NASCAR races before May. Many dominos would need to fall for Legge to attempt "The Double" on such short notice, but it shouldn't be ruled out yet. It's one of racing's most significant accomplishments, and if it doesn't happen in 2025, maybe it could be looked at for 2026 and beyond. Either way, Legge's recent desire for more Cup Series races has made this scenario more likely than it was before. More: Kyle Larson's new livery for the 2025 Indianapolis 500 leaked
