McLaren eyes returning to IndyCar in ‘long-term, meaningful way’
With two of IndyCar’s major teams downsizing, the addition of a deep-pocketed team like Formula One’s McLaren would be good news for the open-wheel circuit.
Speedway/motorsports
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Poll conducted before anthem protests picks Colts, NFL as huge local favorites
Central Indiana residents prefer pro football and Indy’s franchise to all other leagues and teams by a wide margin, according to the study. But its author says recent protests by players around the league could put a dent in their popularity.
Renovated Speedrome racing to finish line of banner year
Officials at the 76-year-old short track say $500,000 in off-season upgrades are paying off with boosts in attendance and race participation.
Roundup: Pacers hire e-sports director, former Star reporter pens IU book
The Pacers organization is preparing to take the virtual court with its new video-gaming team. Meanwhile, Terry Hutchens has compiled a bucket list for Hoosiers hoops fans.
Stewart-Haas Racing helps Lincoln Tech accelerate cutting-edge training
The Gene Haas Foundation is providing $500,000 over the next two years to help train students on computer-controlled milling machines, including those used to make NASCAR race cars.
LPGA returns to Brickyard Crossing with star-studded field
Hospitality tents are going up at the iconic golf course at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in anticipation of an LPGA Tour event, marking the first time women pros have played in central Indiana in nearly two decades.
TV rating for Brickyard 400 hits higher gear while attendance dips
This year’s somewhat unexpected spike in TV viewership for the Indy-based race comes at a time when many other NASCAR events are seeing double-digit ratings decreases.
Local hotels report May dip after Indy 500 attendance lags
While downtown hotels saw no drop in room nights in May, lodging demand downshifted in the outlying areas of Marion County.
One of racing’s biggest stars ponders leaving IndyCar
Three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves is contemplating a future in sports car racing.
Roundup: McAfee throws shade at Grigson; IndyCar eyes global expansion
The Colts’ former kicker poked fun at the team’s former general manager on Monday. Meanwhile, IndyCar officials hope to make inroads in China and Mexico.
Process for screening Indy 500 drivers questioned after Dixon crash
The crash that sent Scott Dixon’s car airborne in May’s Indianapolis 500 has some racing experts—or at least the members of one team—wondering if IndyCar and the Speedway need to do a better job vetting drivers.
Indy 500 TV ratings decline nationally, locally
Overnight television ratings for the 2017 Indianapolis 500 dropped to their lowest point since Nielsen Media Research began tabulating overnight ratings in 2003, but IndyCar chief Mark Miles said he doesn’t think the dip will affect the latest TV contract negotiations for the series.
Demand for hotel rooms declines with size of Indy 500 throng
Attendance at this weekend’s race is expected to lag last year’s mammoth crowd, putting downward pressure on area room rates. The average this year is $195 per night, down from $266 last year.
Roundup: Sponsors of Indy 500 drivers offer style, posh living conditions
Local salon and real estate companies are making their mark on race cars. Plus, new features for the Indy 500 telecast, a massive sculpture at Purgatory Golf Club, and more.
Speedway’s Grand Prix passes eye test in attendance, ratings
Last weekend’s IndyCar road race took a big hit in local TV viewership while picture-perfect weather and a couple of tweaks improved attendance. The national TV audience held steady, no thanks to the Cubs.
Roundup: Indy 500 gets children’s book treatment, golf stars to descend on French Lick
“The Spectacle” aims to educate the next generation of racing fans by breaking down the Speedway’s history. Meanwhile, the Senior LPGA Championship promises to be star-studded.
Roundup: Yuengling bubbles up at west-side track, Colts sign merchandise deal
Meanwhile, the Indiana Fever signs a deal with a local marketing firm to build on the team’s strong sales in 2016, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway educates its fans on organ donation.
Speedway exceeds Indy 500 ticket sales goal, expects corporate hospitality sellout
The crowd could approach 300,000, meaning more than $25 million in tickets for the track. Add concessions, merchandise, parking and hospitality, and revenue could pass $40 million.
IndyCar Series seeking bigger TV deal, more exposure
ABC/ESPN and NBC are interested in broadcasting IndyCar Series races beyond 2018. Alternative partners such as Google and Amazon also could be in play.
Putnam Park race track for civilians continues major expansion
Owner Chris Diasio has sunk $5 million into the private raceway since taking it over in 2012. And he says he isn’t done yet, adding members as fast as the facilities to accommodate them.