Firestone Tires Showcase Durability at Laguna Seca
Laguna Seca, CA – IndyCar drivers provided positive feedback on Firestone’s primary and alternate tire compounds during practice at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on Friday. The drivers noted a marked level of tire degradation, largely attributed to the 11-turn road course that underwent a full repave for the 2023 season.
Colton Herta, a two-time winner at Laguna Seca, observed, “It’s looking a little bit more like older Laguna Seca, which I like. It opens up passing opportunities and improves raceability.” He noted an increase in degradation compared to previous years but emphasized that it remains manageable compared to conditions in 2019 and 2022. Herta described the tire performance as "normal," with both primary (blacks) and alternate (reds) tires responding predictably.
Christian Lundgaard echoed Herta’s sentiments, stating, “I do feel like we’re seeing more similarities to the old surface. The tires feel pretty normal, though there’s more degradation.” Lundgaard highlighted the lower grip levels this year, suggesting that drivers may face increased challenges, leading to potential mistakes as they push their limits.
As the teams prepare for the upcoming race, the blend of tire performance and track conditions suggests a competitive event ahead.
