Michael Andretti reveals how NASCAR’s involvement ‘almost killed IndyCar Racing’

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has held IndyCar races since its inception in 1911. However, a major change occurred when, in 1994, NASCAR entered the scene. Although they are motorsports, IndyCar and NASCAR are unique with requirements ranging from the vehicles to the track. Previously, the Indianapolis track was exclusive to IndyCar, but NASCAR’s entry caused many problems for IndyCar. In a recent conversation with Kenny Wallace, Michael Andretti shared his thoughts on NASCAR’s influence on IndyCar Racing.

Is NASCAR encroaching on IndyCar territory?

In a recent conversation with Kenny Wallace, former IndyCar driver and owner of Andretti Autosp Michael Andretti expressed his disapproval of NASCAR’s entry into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He mentioned that this is what started the challenges for IndyCar. Andretti said: “And then that, you know, obviously, it almost killed IndyCar racing, you know, with both series.

IndyCar doesn’t just share the speedway, they also share the drivers. Drivers are allowed to compete in NASCAR and IndyCar races, a recent example being Kyle Larson. Wallace addressed the subject and said: “I didn’t like seeing certain pilots here, certain pilots here.

IndyCar also has to keep pace with NASCAR’s huge audience and that’s not easy. His remarks highlight the momentum that formed after NASCAR arrived in Indianapolis. However, in the same podcast, the two also talked about Roger Penske, owner of Penske and also the Indianapolis Motorspeedway.

Andretti’s neutral stance on the role of Roger Pensky

A conversation about IndyCar racing is never complete without mentioning the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, so naturally Kenny Wallace asked Michael Andretti about the inevitable. Speaking about Roger Penske, who purchased the iconic venue in 2019, Wallace asked the burning question: “Do you think that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, obviously, Roger, as smart as he is, one of the most iconic businessmen in the world, do you think that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is in a good position right now? moment ?

Andretti, however, had a very neutral response. While he appreciated Penske’s role in improving the venue, he also mentioned that something other than the Speedway could do the trick with a little help. “This is a difficult question. Okay, that’s it. Roger loves Speedway. That’s it for him. And I guess as far as the Speedway itself, I think Roger has done a lot of really good things. And, you know, I think that’s more the show that I think needs more help to help get to 500 as well. But yeah, I don’t know. I don’t know if it’s in a better place or not. I mean, I know Roger, you know, still has a lot of things he wants to do with this and all that, which I hope… will happen,’ Andretti shared.

Andretti’s perspective certainly reveals the complexities and challenges that IndyCar team owners and drivers face. But do you think NASCAR drivers could distract from veteran IndyCar drivers with their involvement, or perhaps NASCAR is eclipsing IndyCar? Let us know in the comments below.