IndyCar is always full of interesting stories, and 2024 will be no exception. In this article, we will highlight five key things to watch out for this year. These include former Formula 1 drivers attempting to revive their careers in different ways, the series facing a crossroads in terms of its ideology, and one of the most highly anticipated debuts in the history of the Indianapolis 500.
Firstly, let’s talk about Romain Grosjean. After being dropped by Andretti, he managed to secure a spot on the grid at Juncos Hollinger. The question now is, what are his goals in IndyCar? It’s clear that Grosjean is here to do more than just collect a paycheck. He is determined to achieve the best results possible. However, his success will depend on various factors such as the performance of the Juncos car and the progress of his teammate Agustin Canapino.
Moving on to Scott Dixon, it’s hard to ignore his impressive track record. With the exception of one race, Dixon consistently finished in the top eight and even won two of the last three races. The only person who managed to outperform him was Alex Palou, the eventual champion. Dixon’s experience and continuity within his crew might give him an edge this year. However, he will face tough competition from the Penske trio, Pato O’Ward, and the talented drivers at Andretti.
Marcus Ericsson has already proven himself in IndyCar since making the switch from Formula 1. He has become a race winner and a regular contender for the championship. Now, as a part of Andretti, he has the opportunity to lead and guide young drivers like Colton Herta and Kyle Kirkwood. Ericsson’s expertise in tire management and racecraft will be invaluable for the team. If everything goes well, he could be a strong contender for the championship.
Next, let’s discuss the delayed introduction of the hybrid package in IndyCar. This has raised questions about testing, its impact on the championship, and the financial burden on smaller teams. It’s crucial for IndyCar to unveil a clear plan for the future and address these concerns. The recent meeting with key stakeholders indicates that significant changes are on the horizon. These changes will shape the direction of the series and determine its success.
Finally, we have Kyle Larson, who is already being considered a potential winner in his first Indy 500. Larson’s impressive track record in various racing disciplines has earned him a reputation as a highly skilled driver. While a victory is certainly possible, it would be unrealistic to expect one from a rookie. The challenging nature of the current formula and the fierce competition make it difficult for newcomers to succeed. Larson will have to outperform drivers like O’Ward, who has consistently impressed at the event, and overcome potential breakthroughs from Honda.
In conclusion, the 2024 IndyCar season promises to be exciting with many intriguing storylines. From the performances of former Formula 1 drivers to the future direction of the series, there is plenty to keep an eye on. While it’s hard to predict the winner of the Indy 500, a top 10 finish would be a great achievement for Kyle Larson as he begins his journey in the prestigious race.