IMS considering “Garage 34” for Indy 500

Could the Indy 500 be in the Delta Wing's future? Who cares.

This Racer.com article talks about the possibility of a 34th entry in future Indianapolis 500s. "Garage 34," would be similar to Garage 56 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as the 34th entry would be reserved for vehicles featuring experimental technology. A perfect example would be the Delta Wing.

We at AR1, think have no problem with a 34th entry per se. Certainly, we're not going to decry tradition, which we believe went out the window with stock cars at Indy, Porsche Super Cup, guaranteed starting spots in the Indy 500, 33 becoming only a number, etc. Further, we suppose, a concept car would help generate some interest, buzz and media coverage ahead of the Indy 500. That said, we continue to be concerned about the approach of IMS and IndyCar management in addressing the shortcomings regarding the sport.

For example, rather than addressing the actual problems (no one cares to watch 33 drivers in 33 of the same cars, vying for 33 spots) with Indy 500 qualifying, IMS addresses the symptom (the fact no one shows up) by switching Pole Day and Bump Day may create a small attendance increase. Now, instead of acknowledging that the lack of innovation in Gasoline Alley might be a problem, and taking proactive steps to solve the problem, IMS decides to throw the fans screaming out for more innovation a bone by having a 34th entry. This 34th entry we imagine will have no chance of winning, and simply be a show car to generate a little extra interest ahead of the race.

Again, we suppose this may generate some a little extra interest. But the problems are on such a larger scale. The fact IMS and IndyCar continue to believe the problems are small, indicates that the arrogance long characteristic of those at 16th & Georgetown remains. And this should be cause for concern for anyone who loves this great sport.

AR1 Staff