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2023 GMR Grand Prix Preview – Motorsports Tribune

2023 GMR Grand Prix Preview – Motorsports Tribune

By Luis Torres, Staff Writer

SPEEDWAY, Ind. — “The Month of May” at Indianapolis Motor Speedway is here with the GMR Grand Prix kicking the three-week journey for the NTT IndyCar Series.

A field of 27 drivers will embark on what could be another unpredictable grand prix on the 2.439-mile road course.

Why the unpredictability? Simple answer being weather.

Over the last two years, rain parlayed a key role into the race with Rinus VeeKay (2021) and Colton Herta (2022) conquering the madness.

Although initial weather reports indicated heavy downpour and thunderstorms on race day, it’s improved to where the 85-lap contest could be raced in dry conditions. But no matter what conditions will unravel on Saturday, the grand prix has its unique challenges where drivers must adapt to sudden changes.

Fresh off his victory at Barber Motorsports Park, Scott McLaughlin explained the circuit has it’s various challenges.

“It’s always a mixed-bag race,” said McLaughlin. “Looks like it might rain, might not. Always pretty exciting. Hopefully we put on a good show and start the month off right.”

Wild moments have been paramount over the past decade and perhaps Saturday won’t be any different. Time will tell how the race will unfold, but one thing is certain. Racing at Indianapolis hits different, no matter the layout.

By the Numbers

What: GMR Grand Prix, NTT IndyCar Series Race No. 5 of 17

Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway – Speedway, IN (Road Course Opened: 2000, first INDYCAR event was 2014)

When: Saturday, May 13

TV/Radio: NBC 3:30 p.m. EST / INDYCAR Radio Network (SiriusXM Channels 85 & 160)

Track Size: 2.439-mile road course

Race Length: 85 laps, 207.32 miles

2022 Race Winner: Colton Herta – No. 26 Andretti Autosport Honda (Started 14th, 50 laps led)

Track Qualifying Record: Will Power – No. 12 Team Penske Chevrolet (67.7044 seconds, 129.687 mph – May 12, 2017)

From the Driver’s Seat

Marcus Ericsson – No. 8 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

“I think it’s a great way to start the month. To start the month of May out on a road course is in my opinion a perfect way to do it. Usually quite fun race here.

“The track itself is maybe not the most challenging on the calendar, but it produces some good racing, always super close. Early May is usually tricky around here weather-wise. I think it’s a perfect way to start the month of May.”

Colton Herta – No. 26 Andretti…

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