IndyCar’s hybrid system has been in force for nearly a full season now, so it begs the question – has the racing improved with its introduction?
Aimed at ‘enhancing racing action’, the 2.2-litre power units deliver more horsepower and push-to-pass, making overtaking easier.
Work began back in November 2022 with both Chevrolet and Honda, and the engine made its full debut at Mid-Ohio in July after a delay.
It has changed the outlook of IndyCar racing, with the way that drivers go about their racing having altered to accommodate the new rules.
Pato O’Ward reveals ‘step down’ in IndyCar racing
Drivers around the paddock have been mostly negative about the ‘boring’ racing that has resulted from the heavier cars and less tyre wear.
Graham Rahal urged people to remain ‘positive’ about the hybrid system when talking to NBC Sports, as teams work hard to perfect it.
McLaren’s Pato O’Ward shared how he believes that the racing has degraded, despite not having to change how he drives his car.
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“I would say it hasn’t been a massive change in terms of what we need to do in the car,” he told outlets including Motorsport Week. “Obviously there’s more times we need to click this button. I think it’s been more of a factor for the racing.
“I think the racing has taken a big step down just looking in Mid-Ohio, Toronto. People don’t need to use their push to pass anymore to defend sometimes. That’s ultimately just opened doors to less fights on track. At least that’s what I feel.”
What does this mean for the championship battle?
It’s a bleak assessment from O’Ward for fans of IndyCar, especially for neutrals who are hoping for an exciting end to the championship.
A five-way fight for the title with four races to go could make for the best end to a championship in history.
It would require a lot of luck for any driver to overcome the current deficit to Alex Palou, but weirder things have happened.
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Colton Herta, Will Power, Scott McLaughlin and Scott Dixon must all have near-perfect ends to the season and only then can they begin to have one eye on the crown.
For Alex Palou, he just has to remain consistent. He may not even need to win any of the remaining four races to take his third crown, top 10 finishes will definitely suffice.