Firestone Completes Successful Tire Test Ahead of IndyCar’s Return to Phoenix
Firestone’s recent tire test at Phoenix Raceway, conducted under unseasonably cold temperatures, yielded critical data as preparation ramps up for IndyCar’s first race at the venue since 2018. The test, held on an early morning track, concluded shortly after noon, with Firestone engineers confirming that they gathered all necessary information to finalize tire specifications for the upcoming event scheduled in March.
“It was a productive test despite the cold,” stated Cara Krstolic, Firestone’s director of race tire engineering and production. The company adapted to forecasted weather challenges by commencing the test at 8 a.m. Rather than rain, the team was met with brisk conditions, which may have played a role in enhancing downforce on the one-mile oval.
The No. 2 Team Penske Chevy driven by Josef Newgarden and the No. 26 Andretti Honda piloted by Will Power were prominent on the track. Krstolic noted that although temperatures never exceeded 60 degrees, the teams could still gather essential long-run data, enabling a thorough analysis of different tire compounds and constructions.
Local conditions were reaffirmed by Newgarden, a previous Phoenix race winner, who remarked, “It was cold today. Still drivable… We got through a lot of running to ensure that Firestone understands what they want to bring back here.”
As the day’s test wrapped up around 12:30 p.m., Krstolic dedicated her afternoon to compiling comprehensive reports of the findings to circulate among all IndyCar teams ahead of the open test scheduled for February 18-19. Firestone is gearing up for production, with Krstolic confirming that timely communication from her team regarding tire specifications is underway.
“We will head back to Akron tomorrow to relay the data necessary for our manufacturing team to start on these tires,” she concluded.
With the upcoming season fast approaching, the efficiency of the test reinforces the competitive spirit of IndyCar racing, setting the stage for a thrilling return to Phoenix.
