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Welcome to the RACER Mailbag. Questions for any of RACER’s writers can be sent to mailbag@racer.com. We can’t guarantee that every letter will be published, but we’ll answer as many as we can. Publ…
Welcome to the RACER Mailbag, where you can send questions for RACER’s writers to mailbag@racer.com. Not all letters will be published, but we’ll do our best to answer as many as possible. Published questions might be edited for length and clarity, with submissions after 3pm ET on Mondays featured the following week. We appreciate your participation.
Some readers believe that the current Pennzoil Dallara is incorrectly called “The Yellow Submarine.” The historical title should go to the Chaparral 2K, according to them. The late Al Unser Sr, Lone Star JR, and late Jim Hall are being overlooked in this debate. The current Penske team members and NBC broadcast crew that propagate this inaccuracy are seen as disrespecting Indy’s history, sparking passionate opinions like Dale from Chesterfield, VA.
Joseph Newgarden, having won two championships and two 500s (with more to come), prompts discussions on his career’s future trajectory. With several potential years of top-level driving ahead, and potential championships at Indy, he could cement his status among the greatest American drivers. Names like A.J. Foyt, Rick Mears, and others are rightfully part of the conversation when assessing Newgarden’s legacy and achievements.
Regarding the perception of an asterisk next to Newgarden’s Indy 500 win, some speculate due to a recent cheating scandal. Despite this skepticism, Newgarden’s victory, alongside Team Penske, was legitimate and deserved. The official recognition of their success should not be tarnished by unjust suspicions. At the checkered flag, Newgarden and his team proved their prowess at the track, earning the respect due to Indy 500 champions.
Concerns arise over the presence of F1 merchandise at the Indy fan zone, causing dismay for some fans at the Speedway. This hybridization of motorsport souvenirs sparks discord among traditionalists. The clash of F1 and IndyCar offerings at such events raises questions about maintaining the distinct identities of these racing series. The integration of different racing cultures and merchandise options could divide opinions among motorsport enthusiasts.
