Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward offered glowing feedback after Tuesday’s test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he and fellow drivers evaluated the resurfaced Turn 2 exit ahead of next year’s Indy 500. O’Ward described the track surface as “good” with no issues and said drivers could push more confidently through the corner.
The repaving addressed persistent bumps that had developed over several years, which previously unsettled cars and made close racing difficult. IndyCar president Doug Boles explained the need for the patchwork, noting the problem’s worsening since 2020 and the discovery of the bump during night repairs. Removing the bricks under the asphalt and resurfacing was vital to restore track smoothness.
O’Ward also weighed in on Firestone’s tire selection for the superspeedway, favoring a softer compound to increase grip and provide more consistent performance throughout the race. He predicted the new surface combined with this tire choice would improve overtaking opportunities and overall racing excitement.
Rival Alex Palou also praised the repaving during the two-day test session, noting it should level the playing field whether drivers start near the front or back. The test featured multiple teams gathering detailed data not only on tires but braking and damper packages for the 2028 Dallara chassis.
IMS fans can watch ongoing testing from vantage points near Turn 2, as the Speedway prepares to make crucial decisions impacting the 2026 season’s marquee event.
