The Thermal Club INDYCAR Grand Prix: A New Chapter in American Open-Wheel Racing
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES marked a historic moment with its inaugural race at The Thermal Club in Thermal, California. This event represents a significant expansion of the series' racing calendar and introduces a new venue to the premier open-wheel racing championship in North America.
Championship Contenders
The 2025 season features an impressive lineup of racing talent:
- Alex Palou - Three-time and reigning series champion
- Will Power - Two-time series champion
- Scott Dixon - Six-time series champion
- Josef Newgarden - Two-time series champion and current Indianapolis 500 winner
Broadcasting Changes
Major changes to INDYCAR's media presence include:
- FOX Sports becomes the exclusive U.S. television partner
- All races receive live coverage on FOX
- The 109th Indianapolis 500 will be featured as a premier broadcast event
"The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is North America's premier open-wheel auto racing series, featuring an international field of the world's most versatile drivers."
Track and Competition Details
The Thermal Club circuit joins the series' diverse range of racing environments:
- Superspeedways
- Short ovals
- Street circuits
- Permanent road courses
Race Format Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Location | Thermal, California |
| Venue | The Thermal Club |
| Race Type | Road Course |
| Championship | NTT INDYCAR SERIES |
International Appeal
The series maintains its reputation for international competition and driver versatility. Key aspects include:
- Global driver representation
- Multiple racing discipline mastery
- Varied track configurations
- High-level competition across all venues
"Beginning in 2025, FOX Sports will showcase every moment of INDYCAR racing action, bringing the intensity and precision of open-wheel racing to audiences nationwide."
Notable Participants
The current field represents a mix of established champions and emerging talent:
- Veteran champions with multiple titles
- Rising international stars
- Indianapolis 500 specialists
- Road course experts
The Thermal Club INDYCAR Grand Prix adds another layer to the championship's diverse calendar, offering drivers yet another unique challenge in their quest for the series title. The combination of technical demands and strategic requirements makes this new venue a worthy addition to the INDYCAR calendar.
