Pole will be worth one point

Indy Racing League officials have altered the bonus points awarded during an IndyCar Series race weekend to match Firestone Indy Lights – two points for leading the most laps and one point for the pole winner, marking the first time since 2000 that points will be awarded based on qualifying. Since 2001, the lap leader received all bonus points.

The pole winner also will receive the $10,000 PEAK Performance Pole Award prize for races other than the 93rd Indianapolis 500 ($100,000).

“The fight for the pole is full of drama on ovals and on road and street courses," said Brian Barnhart, president of competition and operations for the IndyCar Series. “It seems appropriate that the driver who can survive four laps driving on the edge on ovals, or who can make it through three elimination rounds on road and street courses, be rewarded for their efforts with a point towards the championship."

The point system for each race – descending from 50 for first place, 40 for second, 35 for third, etc. – is unchanged.

“I think it’s great that you’re rewarded for pole position because it is such hard work and so difficult to get a pole in this series," said Team Penske’s Ryan Briscoe, who won three poles in 2008." It’s sort of the first race of the weekend. To earn a point for it gives you a little more satisfaction."