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McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has penned a number of annual thoughts about the state of Formula 1, and with the NTT IndyCar Series season days away from reaching its end, the Californian has written…
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown recently shared his thoughts on the state of Formula 1 and now he has penned his first “State of IndyCar” piece, highlighting the positives and areas of improvement in the NTT IndyCar Series. Brown praised the progress made under Penske Entertainment, emphasizing the importance of fair and competitive racing to attract top drivers.
He also stressed the need to enhance the fan experience across all platforms and ensure the financial stability of all teams, proposing further advancements beyond the existing charter system. Brown commended the variety in the 2022 schedule but suggested potential improvements to the calendar, including expanding into new U.S. markets like the East Coast.
Looking ahead, he discussed strategic considerations such as scheduling races to avoid clashes with major events like the NFL season opener and exploring new venues in big markets, citing successful examples like Las Vegas. Brown also acknowledged the potential for international expansion, particularly in Mexico, where drivers like Daniel Suárez and Pato O’Ward have strong followings.
In conclusion, he emphasized the importance of considering investments in venues and focusing on markets close to the U.S. for growth, while not shying away from the prospect of adding international races for further expansion and enhancing the sport’s global appeal.