Ed Carpenter Racing Prepares for Strong Performance at 109th Indianapolis 500
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Ed Carpenter, team owner and driver of Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR), expressed optimism about his team’s readiness to challenge for a strong finish in the upcoming 109th running of the Indianapolis 500. Carpenter, a three-time pole winner and runner-up in the 2018 race, highlighted his team’s solid race setup despite less-than-expected qualifying positions: Alexander Rossi will start 12th, Carpenter 14th, and Christian Rasmussen 18th.
“Monday’s practice went really well,” Carpenter stated. “It’s a good way to finish the week feeling prepared.” He emphasized the importance of fine-tuning the car during the Carb Day practice, which serves as the final opportunity for adjustments before the race. “We’re just focusing on getting everything in order and practicing pit stops.”
Carpenter discussed the impact of IndyCar’s hybrid system, implemented in July, noting it requires precise management due to the added weight. “It’s much more useful in a race setting than in qualifying,” he said. "The hybrid plays a crucial role in defending positions and overtaking."
Rossi, who joined ECR after seven seasons with Andretti Autosport, brings valuable experience, including a victory at the 100th Indianapolis 500 in 2016. Carpenter praised Rossi’s professionalism and detail-oriented approach, viewing his addition as essential to the team’s growth. “We’re in an exciting phase with new ownership and sponsorship, aiming to elevate our performance standards," he remarked.
Rossi echoed Carpenter’s sentiments regarding their potential this year, considering his past success as a motivating factor. “It’s a long time since my last win, but I believe we’re in a good position to try for number two," he said.
Christian Rasmussen, the 2023 Indy NXT champion and an IndyCar sophomore, asserted that despite their qualifying results, ECR has demonstrated substantial racing potential. “We’ve had really fast race cars. I’m very optimistic going into the race,” he noted. The 24-year-old driver also reflected on his growing calmness throughout the month, which he attributes to his experience in last year’s race.
As the team makes final preparations, ECR aims to capitalize on their capabilities and seize opportunities in the race. The Indianapolis 500 is set to unfold this Sunday, promising a highly competitive showdown among the top talent in IndyCar.
