IndyCar Championship: Palou’s Challenge in the 200 Miles of Mid Ohio
The IndyCar 2024 season reaches its crucial point this weekend, with the 200 Miles of Mid Ohio race promising to be a thrilling event. Despite being the current champion and leader in the general classification, Alex Palou arrives at Mid Ohio with a perfect record: he has finished in the top three in every race held on oval tracks.
A New Asphalt, New Cars and More
However, this year is special, with the introduction of new hybrid engines and asphalt changes at the Ohio circuit. Palou will enter the event with a green livery, marking a significant change compared to the 2023 season, during which the same circuit was dominated by the Spanish driver. The new asphalt changes and hybrid engines will raise questions about how the balance of power will be affected in the competition.
Competing for the Championship Title
Currently, Palou stands 23 points ahead of Will Power and 32 points ahead of Scott Dixon. For the Spanish driver, the next few laps will be a significant test, considering the accumulation of data from the oval (six of the eight finals remain). Winning the Mid Ohio circuit would significantly boost Palou’s confidence in his bid for a second championship.
Schedule and Coverage
This weekend’s coverage will be especially convenient for European spectators, with a late-night schedule for Saturday and Sunday’s events. The Sunday race can be followed on Spanish television on Movistar Sports 5, starting at 20:53 hours (CET) at the conclusion of the warm-up practice.
2024 Mid Ohio Honda 200 Schedule
- Friday, July 5: Free Practice 1: 21:20 hours
- Saturday, July 6: Free Practice 2: 16:50 hours, Qualifying: 21:00 hours
- Sunday, July 7: Warm-up practice: 16:25 hours, Car race: 19:53 hours (Spain)