The anticipation is mounting as the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion gears up for his debut in the IndyCar series. Teaming up with Arrow McLaren in partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, the champion is set to make his mark in the blue riband event in May. In preparation for this momentous occasion, the driver recently completed a successful test session at Phoenix Raceway, where he completed an impressive 172 laps.
Despite the impending threat of rain forcing the test to be moved up by a day, the driver remained focused and prepared for the challenge ahead. Reflecting on the experience, the champion expressed satisfaction, stating that the test session went smoothly. After clocking in three to four hours of running on the track, the driver felt comfortable, not only making laps but also practicing important pitstop maneuvers. It was an opportunity to familiarize himself with the track and get a feel for the car in a competitive setting.
As the day progressed, the driver decided to push the boundaries of his skills, searching for the limit on his final run. In a moment of near spin-out, the driver skillfully managed to regain control of the car. Admitting to being caught off guard, the champion acknowledged the warnings he received prior to this incident. However, he also noted that the overall experience felt familiar, with the characteristics of the IndyCar being similar to that of a Cup car, albeit at a much higher speed. The margin between a good performance and a subpar one felt significantly sharper in the IndyCar, emphasizing the need for heightened alertness and quick decision-making.
Throughout the test session, the champion felt that he was getting closer to optimizing his performance. The car’s grip allowed him to push the boundaries, making him believe that he had reached the peak of his abilities. However, with no other drivers to compare his data with, he wished for the presence of another participant. The opportunity to analyze data and compare notes would have allowed him to gauge his performance accurately. Despite this, the champion remained optimistic, acknowledging that he still had more speed to uncover.
Unlike his previous outing in an IndyCar at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he completed the Rookie Orientation Programme, this test session offered a unique challenge. The smaller track at Phoenix Raceway meant that everything happened at a quicker pace, requiring the driver to lift off the throttle on occasion. Comparing the two experiences, the driver admitted that this test session was somewhat uncomfortable but exciting. It was a throwback to the old-school style of testing, where feel and instinct played a vital role.
With the successful completion of the test session, the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion is eagerly awaiting his debut in the IndyCar series. The experience gained from the test at Phoenix Raceway has provided him with valuable insights and the opportunity to fine-tune his skills. As May approaches, the motorsports world eagerly anticipates the exciting entry of this champion into the realm of IndyCar racing. It is a moment that will undoubtedly captivate fans and leave a lasting impression on the sport as a whole.
The test session at Phoenix Raceway was a critical step in the champion’s journey towards his IndyCar debut. It allowed him to become familiar with the car and the track, while also testing the limits of his abilities. Despite a few heart-stopping moments, the champion’s overall performance was impressive. As the countdown to May continues, the motorsports community eagerly awaits the electrifying debut of the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion in the IndyCar series.
Leave a Reply