IndyCar has recently announced some unexpected modifications to its race schedule, set to commence on June 15 with its second oval event of the season, following the iconic 109th Indianapolis 500. The Bommarito Automotive Group 500, held at WWT Raceway, is now scheduled for Sunday night. Moreover, IndyCar has also revised the start times for four additional races in the latter part of the season.
Originally slated to begin at 3 p.m. on Father’s Day, the race at WWT Raceway will now kick off at 8 p.m. ET on FOX. This change marks a significant milestone as it will be IndyCar’s first-ever primetime Sunday night race broadcast on network television, as well as the first night race at the 1.25-mile oval since 2019. IndyCar President Douglas Boles expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is a massive primetime showcase under the lights for the stars of the NTT IndyCar Series.”
The excitement surrounding this event is palpable, with both fans and drivers eagerly anticipating the race weekend in St. Louis, which is just a month away. The collaboration between FOX Sports and World Wide Technology Raceway has created an exceptional opportunity for the sport, as noted by Boles. “Race weekend in St. Louis is just a month away, and fans in the venue and across the country are in for a real treat when IndyCar arrives in town.”
The scheduling change not only benefits the broadcasters but also enhances the racing experience for drivers. Many drivers have been advocating for additional night races on the IndyCar calendar, primarily due to the improved racing conditions that cooler temperatures provide. The WWT Raceway has previously recorded the highest number of on-track passes of any event during the 2024 season, indicating that the new night race format could lead to even more thrilling competition. Additionally, fans will enjoy the comfortable summer evening temperatures while watching the race from the grandstands.
Another advantage of this revised timing for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 is that it allows IndyCar to avoid overlapping with the inaugural NASCAR Cup race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City, as well as the Canadian Grand Prix. This strategic adjustment is a part of a broader trend in IndyCar’s scheduling efforts to maximize viewership and minimize conflicts with other major racing events.
In addition to the Bommarito Automotive Group 500, IndyCar and FOX have collaborated to modify the start times of four other races to prevent broadcasting conflicts with NASCAR. While not all races have been adjusted, the following changes have been implemented:
– The race at Road America will now start at 1:30 p.m. ET on June 22, moving from its original 3:30 p.m. slot.
– The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course race on July 6, along with Race 2 at the Iowa Speedway on July 13, will both shift from a 2 p.m. start time to 1 p.m. ET.
– The race on the Streets of Toronto, previously set for July 20, will now commence at noon instead of 2 p.m.
IndyCar is optimistic that these adjustments will help to “capitalize on opportunities to further build an audience” for the series. Since the inception of IndyCar’s partnership with FOX, the average viewership for races in 2025 has increased by an impressive 15 percent. This trend underscores the potential benefits of strategic scheduling and collaboration with broadcasting partners.
The excitement surrounding the changes to the IndyCar schedule reflects a larger movement within motorsports to create more engaging and accessible experiences for fans. By embracing primetime broadcasts and making strategic scheduling decisions, IndyCar is positioning itself to attract a wider audience and foster greater interest in the series.
As the summer months approach, fans can look forward to a series of thrilling races, with the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 leading the charge. The combination of night racing and a prime-time television slot promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for both attendees at the track and viewers at home. The changes to the schedule not only aim to enhance the competitive atmosphere on the track but also strive to build a stronger connection with the fan base.
With the adjustments to race times, IndyCar is making a concerted effort to ensure that fans have the best possible experience. By prioritizing cooler temperatures and primetime broadcasts, the series is taking significant steps to meet the preferences of both drivers and fans alike. This commitment to creating an enjoyable racing environment is indicative of IndyCar’s dedication to the sport and its followers.
In the coming weeks, as the excitement builds for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 and the rest of the racing season, anticipation will surely grow among fans and participants. The strategic changes made to the schedule are expected to have a positive impact on the overall viewing experience and the competitive nature of the races. With drivers eager to showcase their skills under the lights and fans ready to cheer them on, the upcoming events promise to be a thrilling showcase of talent and speed.
As IndyCar continues to evolve and adapt, the modifications made to the 2025 schedule reflect a willingness to innovate and embrace new opportunities. By enhancing the race day experience and expanding access to viewers, IndyCar is setting the stage for a successful season ahead, filled with excitement, competition, and memorable moments on the track. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, this season promises to deliver racing action like never before.
