This weekend the NTT IndyCar Series heads to the central plains for a set of two races around Iowa Speedway, and the summer heat will give drivers a physical challenge behind the wheel.
Temperatures on Friday and Saturday are expected to be near 95°F (35°C), with plenty of sun to bake the track for the first afternoon race. Drivers are already taking steps to prepare for the test.
The Aeroscreen has caused heat issues in the past, as it does not allow cooling air to circulate through the cockpit efficiently.
The constant speeds of the short oval will help some, but the lack of any long straights which would provide time for the drivers to relax will push the athletes to the limit.
“I think this weekend is without a doubt going to be the hardest we’ve been pushed in this era of IndyCar racing for sure,” said Conor Daly ahead of the weekend. “The forecast doesn’t necessarily look super inviting or wonderful.
“We’ve never run the cool shirt yet at an oval, but I think we’re going to try to run the cool shirt this weekend. I’ve been drinking a gallon of water a day already this week with a big jug. I’ve got about as much hydration stuff as you could possibly fit into a human body for the next few days, and that’s really it.
“It’s going to be an ice bath after race one, try to do that. It’s going to be maximum effort to try to just make sure you’re not only able to survive but perform.
“You can probably survive but you also want to be competitive. When you start losing the physical capability, you start losing competitiveness. It’s going to be a challenge, and if anyone says it’s not, well, they’re lying directly to your face.”
The second race is scheduled to be run on Sunday afternoon, but a weak cold front will move through the area and drop temperatures to near 80°F (27°C) for the second part of the doubleheader.
Multiple outdoor concerts are scheduled for the weekend as well, which will put extra stress on fans who are looking to enjoy the event, which returns after being removed from the calendar in 2021.
The first race is scheduled to start at 3:00PM central time Saturday, with the second race set for 2:00PM central time Sunday.
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