Helio Castroneves laments missed opportunities after first three races

Helio Castroneves has expressed dissatisfaction over several missed opportunities during the opening three races of the IndyCar season, with the Brazilian veteran securing pole position on two occasions, yet failing to translate them into victories.

Despite storming to an impressive pole position for the Phoenix Grand Prix, Castroneves only led 39 laps before being struck with a puncture. 

The Brazilian instantly slowed and was forced to pit, losing not only the lead but also considerable ground as team-mate Juan Pablo Montoya assumed the lead.

Whilst Montoya was also struck with an identical puncture shortly afterwards, Castroneves failed to return to the sharp end of the order and could only manage 11th position at the chequered flag.

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Last time out at Long Beach Castroneves once again secured pole position and led 47 of the 80 laps during the race, however he lost several positions during the final round of pit-stops and was forced to settle for third position.

“I feel like we've let some opportunities get away so far this season,” admitted Castroneves ahead of the IndyCar Grand Prix of Alabama this weekend. 

“Last week at Long Beach, we led a bunch of laps, but not the right ones. 

“[I’m] not unhappy about the start of the season at all. We just need to get some better finishes and we will.”

The scenic Barber Motorsports Park has been a kind venue for Castroneves in the past, with the 40-year-old taking victory during the inaugural race weekend in 2010 and finishing on the podium a further two times in 2012 and 2013.

Castroneves has also secured pole position around the 2.3-mile circuit on two occasions, and will therefore be aiming for a third consecutive pole position this weekend.

“We won the pole last year, but the race didn't turn out very well,” continued Castroneves, who finished last year’s race in a lowly 15th position. 

“It's a challenging track. We've had three podiums and a win here and need to get back to that type of performance.”