Barnhart: Double file restarts will be used at Indy

Drivers aren't in favor of double-file restarts, but chief steward Brian Barnhart reiterated Monday that they'll be used for the first time in 500 history in the May 29 race.

Still to be determined, Barnhart said, is the speed at which the field will come to the green flag. In past years, the leader came off the fourth turn at about 190 mph, but that doesn't fit with IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard's goal of slower approaches for the purpose of better alignment.

Barnhart said the restart speed could be in the 120-140 mph range, although he'll have a better idea once he meets with driver representatives, a meeting expected next week.

Four-time 500 winner Rick Mears pointed out one thing that should help drivers who are worried about being in the outside groove that likely will have more excess tire rubber.

"Going slower will reduce the draft and the run people (in the back) can get on you," Mears said. Indy Star