The NASCAR Cup Sequence returned to the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s oval course in 2024, following three seasons of working the infield street course.
Kyle Larson gained the Brickyard 400 following a powerful late drive by the sphere, in a end highlighted (or maybe lowlighted) by a collection of accidents and a few controversial officiating.
General, although, the racing was boring and forgettable. Passing was subsequent to inconceivable save for Larson’s cost within the closing laps, which might be largely attributed to many of the remainder of the sphere being compelled to save lots of gasoline.
Drivers working midfield may inherit the lead on pit technique and take off, whereas others might be cycled to the again after working up entrance and be fully caught there.
Some will attribute that to NASCAR’s NextGen automobile, however Indy’s oval has struggled to placed on thrilling motion for a few years. There is a purpose why it was ditched in favor of the street course between 2021 and 2023, which was hoped to be an answer, however that did not work out because the street course doesn’t provide the identical status.
Clearly, Indy is a historic venue. The Indianapolis 500 is kind of probably the best spectacle in motorsports. The opportunity of a driver reminiscent of Larson, who ran each Brickyard races in 2024, doubtlessly profitable each occasions in his profession is one thing that offers IMS a singular attraction as considered one of NASCAR’s crown jewels. Sadly, although, it is nearly the one attraction.
One of the best factor that may be stated racing-wise about any of the newer Brickyard 400s is that pit technique can throw an fascinating wrench into issues. Nevertheless, there’s different tracks the place that is additionally the case, reminiscent of Pocono, which is best suited to inventory automobile racing and has been a staple of the Cup Sequence calendar for 50 years.
The reality is easy: NASCAR must cease going to IMS. This monitor was not designed for inventory automobiles, and the novelty has largely worn off. The Brickyard 400 might usher in excessive attendance numbers (largely by advantage of IMS having the biggest seating capability of any monitor), however its calling card at this level goes no additional than merely being on the identical facility that hosts the Indy 500.
The Brickyard had a pleasant run as a part of the Cup Sequence schedule, however it is time to pull the plug. If NASCAR is to proceed to race in Indy, it ought to be throughout city at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
