Indycar Weekend

The only major series race this weekend is the Indycar Series, who are on their first fly-away race in Sao Paulo, Brazil.  Due to a contract dispute with Formula 1, Indy is not allowed to run on the hallowed Interlagos Circuit, so iconic of Brazil's car culture.  Because of this an alternative was set up in the streets of the city, utilizing the Sambadrome (a recreational area built for parades during Carnival) and the city's convention center.  This will be the second Indycar venture on this track, which was marred by confusion last year.  In practice it rained heavily, giving the drivers very little time to learn the course.  

Being Brazil, the threat of rain again this weekend is still a real possibility.  Then the night before the race, after deciding the concrete Samba straight was too slick, it was diamond ground.  This caused a buildup of dust which formed a cloud as the field rolled through for the start of the race.  The low visibility was a factor in a number of accidents, especially early in the race.

Vital statistics on the track: It is a temporary street circuit which has seen heavy public traffic since it was paved with its race surface.  It is just over 2.5 miles long, and features 11 corners.  Surface is asphalt, the same blend as Interlagos, except for the Sambadrome straight, which is ground concrete.  The race will be about 190 miles around the course.  The track record is 1:27.74 (Franchitti) and last year's winner was Will Power, driving for Verizon/Penske.

The race coverage will begin at Noon Eastern time on Versus.  Click HERE for a spotter's guide to this weekend's cars.  Enjoy the race!