IndyCar updates rules for 2014

THEIndyCar has updated its regulations for the 2014 season by significantly reorganizing its points allocation system. While the winner will still receive 50 units during a classic weekend of competition, the reward will be doubled for the 500-mile events: at the Indianapolis 500 (May 25), at Pocono Raceway (July 6) and at the Auto Club Speedway of Fontana (August 30) which will close the season. Qualifying for the Indianapolis 500 on May 17 and 18 will also offer a points reward: from 1 to 33 points for the first session and from 1 to 9 points for the Fast Nine Shootout.

Reliability will also be rewarded with ten bonus points awarded to each manufacturer whose 6l twin-turbo V2.2 exceeds the 2500 mile mark (approximately 4000km). Manufacturers will also have two bonus points for the greatest number of laps led, one point for leading the race for at least one lap and another additional point for pole (except at the Indianapolis 500).

On the other hand, drivers will no longer be penalized by ten places on the grid when an engine is changed before having reached the limit set by the regulations, but each competitor will receive a penalty of ten points. A change not approved by officials will result in a start from the back of the grid. Penalties imposed at the Indy 500 will be applied at the next event in Detroit. “The public don't like to see a driver penalized ten places on the grid for engine changes, particularly when it's beyond the team's control. With the support of manufacturers, we can ensure our races take place without adding more confusion to spectators who follow this discipline”, commented Derrick Walker, President of IndyCar Competition and Operations.

Photos of IndyCar testing at Barber Motorsports Park can be found on this link.