IndyCar – Helio Castroneves on pole at Fontana

The three-way match between Will Power (Team Penske – Chevrolet), his teammate Helio Castroneves and French Simon PAgenaud (Schmidt Peterson Motorsports – Honda) actually started in qualifying. On the Californian oval of Fontana, it was the Brazilian who took the first advantage by taking pole position, as well as the bonus point rewarding each pole-sitter. Castroneves thus returned to 50 points behind Power in the championship even before the start of the race. The Australian had started his weekend well by setting the best time during the first free practice session, but was unable to repeat his performance in qualifying. He will start at the back of the grid in 21st position. “It could have been a much better qualification. This was as bad as it could be. I think that on the starting position, I prefer either to start in front or completely behind. You know, just to stay out of trouble. Yes, everything will be decided in the race. It will be very long. » admits the driver of the DW12 n°12.

Simon Pagenaud, last in contention for the title, placed his car of Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, powered by Honda in 13th position, two places ahead of the other Frenchman Sébastien Bourdais (KV Racing – Chevrolet). “We didn't really focus on qualifying. We should be really good for the race and we were really strong here on Wednesday in testing, so I feel confident. I feel like we have a car to play a leading role and fight for victory. » explains the Habs.

The Fontana race will take place this evening.