IndyCar Announces Schedule Changes for Upcoming Season
Date: June 15, 2024
IndyCar has unveiled significant modifications to its schedule, most notably moving the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 at WWT Raceway to a primetime slot on June 15. Originally set for a 3 p.m. start on Father’s Day, the race will now commence at 8 p.m. ET, marking IndyCar’s first live primetime Sunday broadcast on network television and the first night event at the 1.25-mile oval since 2019.
IndyCar President Douglas Boles emphasized the importance of this change, stating, “This is a massive primetime showcase under the lights for the stars of the NTT IndyCar Series.” He highlighted the collaboration with FOX Sports and WWT Raceway as instrumental in creating this opportunity for heightened visibility of the series.
The shift to a nighttime event addresses drivers’ requests for more evening races, which typically offer cooler temperatures conducive to better racing conditions. Notably, WWT Raceway recorded the highest number of on-track passes during the 2024 season, underscoring its reputation for competitive racing.
Furthermore, the new timing strategically avoids conflicts with the inaugural NASCAR Cup race at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City and the Canadian Grand Prix, enhancing viewer engagement.
Additional Schedule Adjustments
In addition to the primetime race, IndyCar has altered start times for four other events to accommodate broadcast scheduling:
- Road America: Moved from 3:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET on June 22
- Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course: Reset from 2 p.m. to 1 p.m. ET on July 6
- Iowa Speedway (Race 2): Changed from 2 p.m. to 1 p.m. ET on July 13
- Streets of Toronto: Adjusted from 2 p.m. to noon on July 20
These revisions aim to optimize viewer engagement, with IndyCar reporting a 15 percent increase in average race audiences since partnering with FOX Sports in 2025.
With these strategic changes, IndyCar is poised to attract a larger audience while enhancing the racing experience for drivers and fans alike.
