The Race IndyCar Podcast · The Race Media Ltd

Why IndyCar’s million dollar experiment failed

March 27, 2024·1 hr 11 min·5 clips

Why did IndyCar's million-dollar experiment at Thermal fail so badly that fans are demanding major changes?

This episode analyzes IndyCar's non-championship Thermal $1 Million Challenge event, hosted by The Athletic's motorsport journalist and former IndyCar driver JR Hildebrand. They dissect the experimental race's format, fan and competitor reactions, and its implications for the series' future. Hildebrand brings a driver's perspective on the event's structure and team dynamics. The hosts reference specific criticisms from fans and teams online, noting that many were unhappy with the event's execution. They discuss how the event's placement on the calendar was likely a result of NASCAR moving its Texas race, creating a scheduling gap. Hildebrand suggests a core issue was unclear communication from IndyCar about the event's experimental, non-championship nature and its financial justifications. The format included heat races, a final, and the use of push-to-pass in qualifying, which driver Scott McLaughlin reportedly supported. The conversation highlights the private, members-only Thermal Club venue, which limited fan attendance and created an "elitist vibe." They note driver Alex Palou's post-race comment that he wouldn't want a similar non-points event in the middle of the season again. Hildebrand uses an analogy about simulator testing to explain how mixed expectations can hinder experimental endeavors. The hosts acknowledge the high tire degradation at the track actually allowed cars to follow closely, creating some good racing moments. A surprising insight is Hildebrand's defense of the track itself, arguing the racing was better than many perceived and the main issues were format-related. They propose the event could serve as a blueprint for a polished, off-season exhibition at an international venue. The hosts express concern that overly harsh criticism could deter IndyCar from future innovation. Hildebrand reveals he approached the weekend with no performance expectations, treating it purely as a learning exercise, which colored his more positive view. The tone is analytical and conversational, blending a journalist's critique with a former driver's insider understanding of team and series logistics. The style is a structured discussion, moving from event positives to negatives while advocating for constructive feedback. This episode is ideal for dedicated IndyCar fans interested in the business and format challenges facing the series. Listeners seeking pure race recap or those antagonistic toward series experimentation might find it less engaging.

As heard by us

A blunt, fair-minded look at Thermal's big swing and why it left so many people unconvinced.

The Thermal $1 million challenge comes across as a measured postmortem, with the hosts spelling out what worked, what missed, and what ought to change next.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want the Thermal experiment unpacked without the usual pile-on?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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