P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Has IndyCar’s Texas loss come at the right time?
After years of turbulence and issues, the IndyCar Series and Texas Motor Speedway officially ended their relationship with the 2024 schedule. The partnership began in 1997 but faced numerous challenges along the way. The iconic moment of AJ Foyt backhanding Arie Luyendyk in Victory Lane at the inaugural event symbolized the start of the difficulties. Timing and scoring issues further intensified the problems and eventually led to the United States Auto Club exiting the championship. While the track initially provided thrilling races and close finishes, dwindling attendance and persistent issues led to a repave, reconstruction, and reconfiguration. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the opportunity for IndyCar to restart its season at Texas in 2020, albeit without spectators. Despite efforts to improve racing, single-file racing persisted until a special session in 2022 allowed drivers to work the upper lanes.
Source: motorsport
