Simpson Shines in Detroit Grand Prix Despite Challenging Start
Detroit, MI – Kyffin Simpson demonstrated remarkable resilience during the 100-lap Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix, finishing fifth in a competitive field after starting 19th. The Ganassi driver had a rocky start, dropping to 23rd by the second lap, but displayed strong racecraft throughout the event, ultimately securing his career-best finish.
Simpson’s strategy, devised by race strategist Taylor Kiel, involved an extended first stint on Firestone’s primary tires. After advancing to 11th by lap 14, Simpson executed a unique pit strategy, completing 38 laps before switching to softer, but more fragile, alternate tires on lap 65. This decision, while risky, allowed him to capitalize on a caution triggered by a crash involving PREMA driver Callum Ilott, positioning him second for the restart on lap 76.
Though Simpson was overtaken by race winner Kyle Kirkwood, Colton Herta, and Will Power in the race’s final laps, his fifth-place finish and two fastest laps earned him valuable championship points and highlighted significant progress in his second season. It marked a turnaround after troubled performances in prior races, including a last-place result in the Indianapolis Grand Prix and a crash in the Indy 500.
Kiel praised Simpson’s work ethic and ability to learn under pressure: “He’s surrounded by champions and is doing everything he needs to do to take advantage of this opportunity," he noted. After this race, Simpson improved to 18th in the championship standings, just a few points from entering the top 15.
The young driver’s trajectory suggests a bright future, underscoring the potential that has begun to emerge as he adapts and grows in the highly competitive IndyCar Series.
