The NTT IndyCar Series has announced that it will be continuing with an experimental qualifying change for the remaining street course races in the 2026 season.
During the inaugural Grand Prix of Arlington last month, the series trialed a new format that saw the drivers that advanced to the Fast Six round take to the track one at a time.
Each driver was given full attention while they made their one and only attempt at securing pole as opposed to all drivers on course at once.
An additional small change will be made, which allows drivers to choose the order they complete their final pole attempts.
The fastest driver in Round 2 will get first choice, then second quick, all the way until the sixth fastest driver takes the remaining opening for their pole attempt.
Now quicker drivers in the second round will have an advantage because they can account for evolving track conditions.
“The debut of single-car Firestone Fast Six qualifying in Arlington was extremely popular and well received,” IndyCar President Doug Boles said.
“Following the event, we reached out to stakeholders to help evaluate the format and look into ways to improve an already exciting session.
“This slight update will provide the fastest from the Top 12 an earned advantage of choosing when they would like their run in the Fast Six, while tire selection before lining up at pit out will save time and more closely equalize the session.”
Solo qualifying runs help to give drivers a completely clear track free of other cars and gives the car and its sponsors a chunk of uninterrupted television coverage.
The tweaked format will be in force at this weekend’s Grand Prix of Long Beach, as well as Detroit, Markham, and Washington, DC later in the season.
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