Get ready for an electrifying spectacle as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES gears up to host a thrilling racing exhibition at The Thermal Club in scenic Southern California during the 2024 season. This special event promises high-octane action and a chance for drivers to vie for a staggering $1 million prize, all set to be showcased on NBC network television.
(2023 Scott Dixon - Photo Credit: Chris Jones)
Mark Miles, President & CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., expressed enthusiasm about the addition of this unique event to the INDYCAR schedule, stating, “The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is thrilled to introduce an extraordinary new showcase at The Thermal Club. Nestled near the world’s premier entertainment hub, this world-class venue provides the ideal backdrop for our fiercely competitive racing and the rising star power of our drivers.”
Race Day for the $1 Million Challenge is slated for Sunday, March 24, with an NTT INDYCAR SERIES Open Test and qualifications scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 22-23.
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While the event won't factor into championship points, it will feature a multimillion-dollar purse. A draw party will kick off the festivities, pairing members of The Thermal Club with each race team and driver. The weekend will include a qualifying session and two heat races, with the top six from each heat advancing to an All-Star showcase. The top five finishing teams will split their earnings with The Thermal Club members, with the winner taking home a $1 million prize.
Further details about a charitable component to the event will be announced at a later date.
INDYCAR President Jay Frye reflected on the success of the Open Test held on the 17-turn, 3.067-mile layout of The Thermal Club in February 2023, stating, “The teams' experience at The Thermal Club was unparalleled. It served as an ideal preseason scrimmage, igniting what became a record-breaking season. We eagerly anticipate returning to showcase INDYCAR in an entirely new light.”
Thermal 2023:
Located just outside Palm Springs, California, The Thermal Club is a prestigious private facility sprawled over 490 acres. Renowned as the ultimate haven for motorsports enthusiasts, the facility boasts luxury homes, a motorsports village, and gourmet restaurants. It was named “Professional Motorsport Facility of the Year” at the 2017 Professional Motorsports World Expo in Germany.
John Rogers, owner of The Thermal Club, expressed excitement about welcoming INDYCAR back during the 2024 season, stating, “Following the success of the 2023 NTT INDYCAR SERIES test, we are proud to host INDYCAR once again. This marquee racing showcase in March promises to be special for everyone involved.”
More of the Track from 2023:
(Kyle Kirkwood - Photo Credit: Penske Entertainment, Joe Skibinski)
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(Felix Rosenqvist - Photo Credit: Joe Skibinski)