Carlin’s Max Chilton says the “free-for-all” nature of driving standards among his fellow competitors contributed to his decision to quit oval racing.
During the 2019 campaign Chilton opted out of oval competition over safety concerns regarding head protection, and the #59 Gallagher car was filled by Conor Daly for the remaining oval races.
Chilton will remain in the series for 2020, his fifth overall, and third with Carlin.
Despite giving up oval racing the 28-year-old will continue to compete in the world-famous Indianapolis 500, stating drivers show the speedway respect as they build up to the event.
When asked about why he will only tackle the Indy 500, rather than circuits such as Texas and Pocono, Chilton said. “I’ve done more laps there than any other oval I’ve ever raced on.
“You’re taking dangers, you are taking risks we all know that, it’s the fastest track of the year, but it’s done in the right way.
“I think everyone builds up to it and everyone has a lot more respect there than when they drive at other places, you watch the driving standards at other ovals, Indy always has a good driving standard.
“Even if people are doing one race there, they treat it with respect.
“When you go to these other races, it’s like a free-for-all, these accidents that happen could have been avoided if people just treat them with a bit more respect.
“That’s the reason I’m willing to do that race.”
Chilton recorded a best Indianapolis 500 result of fourth, with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2017
