IRL to Test Iowa Speedway

[Schwartz Fan]

IRL to Test Iowa Speedway
RacingOne Report


INDIANAPOLIS – The Indy Racing League will conduct a one-day private compatibility test on Aug. 2 at the recently constructed Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa, the first IRL test at the facility.

The test is part of the normal process the IRL follows for new and potential venues, according to John Lewis, IRL vice president for league development. IndyCar Series driver Scott Dixon of Target Chip Ganassi Racing and Indy Pro Series driver Wade Cunningham of Brian Stewart Racing will represent their respective series during the test on the 7/8 mile oval.

“A compatibility test is due diligence by the League to make sure our equipment is compatible with a facility,” Lewis said. “IndyCar Series cars are the most versatile in motorsports. This test will allow both us as a League and Iowa as a facility to make adjustments as needed.”

The IRL has conducted compatibility tests at every facility which has played host to either the IndyCar Series or an Indy Pro Series event, including tests at Watkins Glen International and Infineon Raceway prior to their debut events in 2005. The league also conducted tests after Homestead-Miami Speedway and Phoenix International Raceway after they were reconfigured.

The goal of the test is to see how IndyCar Series cars react to the racing surface and to determine what changes, if any, are needed for IndyCar Series or Indy Pro Series cars, engines, chassis or tires to race at the facility.

“We look at everything from the track surface, pit lane to race track transitions, the walls and pit and paddock areas.” Lewis said. “Whether the track is in Motegi, Japan or Newton, Iowa the Indy Racing League conducts such tests to assure the best product available is delivered to our fans.”


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