When the NTT IndyCar Series returns to the streets of Nashville this August, a few adjustments to the track will be in place to help drivers navigate the course.
The biggest change is one that has been hinted at since last year’s inaugural race, and will see the restart location join the initial start location at the end of the backstretch.
There were multiple restarts in the 2021 race, and there were multiple pileups in the tight corners leading up to the finish line as a result, including one that blocked the track completely.
A separate wreck at that location saw Marcus Ericsson get launched over the back of Sebastien Bourdais coming to the green flag, only for the Swede to make an improbable comeback to take the victory.
Placing the start of the race and the restart zone at the end of the long straight that includes the bridge section gives a better opportunity to get the race started cleanly and avoid the same interruptions.
The finish line and main flag stand will remain directly in front of the Titans football stadium, as well the location of pit lane.
There are planned modifications to the track design as well, which will see the tight turn 11 be widened by six feet, and the spacious turn 9 be narrowed slightly to accommodate better fan seating.
The large bumps at the transition points on and off the suspension bridge will also have extra work done in order to minimize cars bottoming out while running at full speed.
In addition to the track improvements, there will be some additional entertainment options for fans attending the race in person.
One of those events is the addition of Jet Ski racing on the Cumberland River underneath the race track, adding to the already packed schedule that has four on-track support series scheduled for the weekend.
The Music City Grand Prix takes place from August 5-7, and is the final street course on IndyCar’s 2022 schedule.
