The roots of the problem: an Indycar TL

[kinnikuniverse]

BONUS: here's how the standings look like at the mid-point of the season

Top 10 standings after 10 rounds

1. Michael Andretti 20 wth wth 20 16 0 16 20 0 20 112 pts

2. Paul Tracy 0 20 20 0 0 2 14 16 20 0 92 pts

3. Emerson Fittipaldi 16 0 0 14 14 0 20 14 0 0 78 pts

4. Bobby Rahal 6 0 16 DNQ 12 10 12 4 14 2 76 pts

5. Raul Boesel 3 0 0 12 20 16 4 6 12 72 pts

6. Mario Andretti 12 16 0 10 0 0 6 0 4 16 64 pts

7. Al Unser Jr 0 12 0 3 10 6 10 3 12 3 59 pts

8. Robby Gordon 14 6 DSQ 0 0 3 3 10 10 0 46 pts

9. John Andretti 10 0 10 0 6 0 0 12 0 4 42 pts

10. Wally Dallenbach Jr 0 0 3 0 0 20 0 0 16 0 39 pts


ROOKIE OF THE YEAR STANDINGS

1. Jeff Gordon 36 pts
2. Mauricio Gugelmin 15 pts
3. Mark Smith 3 pts
4. Davey Hamilton 2 pts
5. Robbie Groff 1 pt

A massive comeback for Bobby Rahal. The switch to Lola proved very fruitful, as he now finds himself at an outside shot of entering the title race, which looks increasingly like a duel between Michael and PT, while Dallenbach pokes his head into the top 10 with that win at the Glen, though the Galmer G93 is unfortunately looking like a downgrade to the G92, with impending free agent Little Al possibly going out of title contention, and with the G93's performances, chances of him making a late charge like 1992 is looking increasingly slim...

Great work by Boesel, who is havign the best indycar season of his career, while John Andretti has outperformed Walker teammate and 1992 Indy 500 winner Scott Goodyear on points. However, it could be considered a disappointment so far for the Walker team, who were expected to be among the main dark horses this year.

In the rookies standings, it is close between Jeff Gordon and Mauricio Gugelmin, though the California kid has a much more competitive car than the other rookies, and if he can focus and calm down, he might even have a chance at finishing in the top 10.

 

[kinnikuniverse]

1993 Marlboro Indycar World Series: Rounds 11-16


The Marlboro Indycar world series kicks off its second half of the 1993 season eith its summer tour of Ohio, with the Burke Lakefront Airport and its chaotic Grand Prix of Cleveland the site of the first leg of said tour. Michael Andretti and Paul Tracy are going head to head for the title, with the young canadian getting the pole in an extremely fast lap in qualifying, as if he was driving with his career at Penske on the line. Could it be related to the presence of Honda executives to try and sway them to the captain's team for next year? Or perhaps to tell inpending free agent Al Unser Jr, who is rumoured to join Penske in 1994, that the seat is his and his alone?



Round 11: Budweiser grand prix of cleveland


ROW 1
Paul Tracy
Muchael Andretti

ROW 3
Emerson Fittipaldi
Scott Sharp

ROW 3
Scott Goodyear
Wally Dallenbach Jr

ROW 4
Al Unser Jr
Mark Smith

ROW 5
Jeff Gordon
Bobby Rahal

ROW 6
Mario Andretti
Raul Boesel

ROW 7
Davy Jones
John Andretti

ROW 8
Eddie Cheever
Scott Brayton

ROW 9
Scott Pruett
Jimmy Vasser

ROW 10
Mauricio Gugelmin
Robby Gordon

ROW 11
Hiro Matsushita
Adrian Fernandez

ROW 12
Buddy Lazier
Lyn St. James

ROW 13
Ross Cheever
Robbie Buhl

ROW 14
Andrea Montermini
Mike Groff

ROW 15
Robbie Groff
Éric Bachelart


Amidst the usual chaos that accompanies the Cleveland GP, Michael and PT fought for the win as they both look to put one hand on the title. The two were evenly matched, both on track and in the pits, until the decisive moment on lap 62, when PT caught Michael sleeping at the end of the backstraight and took the lead, never looking back as he scores his 4th win of the season.


An excellent performance for 1992 Rookie of the year Scott Sharp in the Bettenhausen Penske, while Robby Gordon, who's team Ganassi is also rumoured to be in talks with Honda, scores yet another top 6 finish. Finally, Jeff Gordon, using the momentum from the 6th place at Michigan, moves up from 6 places after a bad start to finish 8th, while Davy Jones scores his annual random points finish for AJ Foyt to keep his job there.

Scott Sharp back into prominence​

Results

1. Paul Tracy 20 pts
2. Michael Andretti 16 pts
3. Emerson Fittipaldi 14 pts
4. Scott Sharp 12 pts
5. Mario Andretti 10 pts
6. Robby Gordon 6 pts
7. Raul Boesel 4 pts
8. Jeff Gordon 3 pts
9. Davy Jones 2 pts
10. Mauricio Gugelmin 1 pt



Round 12: Miller Genuine Draft 200 at mid-ohio

ROW 1
Michael Andretti
Paul Tracy

ROW 2
Emerson Fittipaldi
Raul Boesel

ROW 3
Scott Goodyear
Al Unser Jr

ROW 4
Jeff Gordon
John Andretti

ROW 5
Jimmy Vasser
Mario Andretti

ROW 6
Scott Sharp
Mauricio Gugelmin

ROW 7
Mark Smith
Bobby Rahal

ROW 8
Robby Gordon
Wally Dallenbach Jr

ROW 9
Scott Brayton
Scott Pruett

ROW 10
Davy Jones
Ross Cheever

ROW 11
Eddie Cheever
Robbie Groff

ROW 12
Hiro Matsushita
Robbie Buhl

ROW 13
Andrea Montermini
Buddy Lazier

ROW 14
Dave Kudrave
Mike Groff

DNQ
Éric Bachelart


The second leg of the Ohio tour leads us to Bobby Rahal's home track, the Mid-Ohio sports car course. PT and Michael are on the front row once again, and the first 20 laps looked like yet another duel for the win between the two championship contenders. However, Michael attempted a pass at the end of the back straight, but PT closed the door abruptly, prompting a collision between.the two that took out PT and forced Michael to lose precious time in the pits for repairs.

While Michael was busy charging down the field to score a precious point, going from 17th to a final 10th place by passing Eddie Cheever, Emerson Fittipaldi inherited the lead, and looked absolutely dominant, having a 30 second lead over Robby Gordona nd Scott Goodyear, who were busy battling for 2nd place.


...and then, with only 7 laps to go, Emmo's Chevy Ilmor engine went up in smokes! Roger Penske was not too happy about that!

Now, the battle was on for the win between Goodyear and Robby Gordon, with the canadian trying his best to pass the young american, but Robby holds him off and scores his first career Indycar win and Ganassi's second ever win as a team!

Meanwhile, Jeff Gordon's race didn't last long, for he suffered electrical problems in the early goings of the race.

Robby Gordon, the third surprise winner this year​

Results

1. Robby Gordon 20 pts
2. Scott Goodyear 16 pts
3. Raul Boesel 14 pts
4. John Andretti 12 pts
5. Bobby Rahal 10 pts
6. Mario Andretti 6 pts
7. Al Unser Jr 4 pts
8. Scott Pruett 3 pts
9. Jimmy Vasser 2 pts
10. Michael Andretti 1 pt

Round 13: Texaco Halvoline 200 at Road America

ROW 1
Paul Tracy
Michael Andretti

ROW 2
Mario Andretti
Raul Boesel

ROW 3
Emerson Fittipaldi
Al Unser Jr

ROW 4
Scott Goodyear
Robby Gordon

ROW 5
Mark Smith
Bobby Rahal

ROW 6
Eddie Cheever
Scott Pruett

ROW 7
Mauricio Gugelmin
Jimmy Vasser

ROW 8
John Andretti
Jeff Gordon

ROW 9
Scott Sharp
Scott Brayton

ROW 10
Wally Dallenbach Jr
Davy Jones

ROW 11
Hiro Matsushita
Dave Kudrave

ROW 12
Robbie Buhl
Adrian Fernandez

ROW 13
Robbie Groff
Andrea Montermini

ROW 14
Ross Cheever
Lyn St James

ROW 15
Éric Bachelart
Mike Groff


Race Results

1. Paul Tracy 20 pts
2. Michael Andretti 16 pts
3. Bobby Rahal 14 pts
4. Raul Boesel 12 pts
5. Emerson Fittipaldi 10 pts
6. Eddie Cheever 6 pts
7. Scott Pruett 4 pts
8. Jeff Gordon 3 pts
9. Robby Gordon 2 pts
10. Mauricio Gugelmin 1 pt

The title race heats up as PT and Michael once again delivered an exciting duel for the win at Elkhart Lake, with many daring passes and a tight competition in the pits. Evenly matched through, PT made the move of the race as he passed Michael at the exit of the carroussel with 5 laps to go, securing the win and getting closer to Michael.

Jeff Gordon, meanwhile, had probably the drive of the day. Starting in 16th, the Jim Hall driver drove a very smart race and ended up in an impressive 8th.

PT is on fire

Round 14: Texas 500 at Texas World Speedway


A light breeze filled the air at Texas World Speedway, and perhaps the msot surprising moment of the season so far in qualifying, where rookie Jeff Gordon scores the pole position after an amazing lap where he narrowly beat Scott Goodyear by two tenths of a second. Jeff had much media attention around him for being the first rookie in Indycar to score pole position since Emmo in 1983, and it seemed that a few Honda executives were particularly impressed by the rookie's performance...

Meanwhile, Michael and PT once again shares the same row, and on a super speedway like Texas world, sparks will surely fly between them.

ROW 1
Jeff Gordon
Scott Goodyear

ROW 2
Michael Andretti
Paul Tracy

ROW 3
Al Unser Jr
Robby Gordon

ROW 4
John Andretti
Raul Boesel

ROW 5
Bobby Rahal
Emerson Fittipaldi

ROW 6
Scott Sharp
Jimmy Vasser

ROW 7
Mark Smith
Mario Andretti

ROW 8
Wally Dallenbach Jr
Willy T. Ribs

ROW 9
Eddie Cheever
Scott Pruett

ROW 10
Scott Brayton
Robbie Groff

ROW 11
Davey Hamilton
Hiro Matsushita

ROW 12
Mauricio Gugelmin
Davy Jones

ROW 13
Mike Groff
Robbie Buhl

ROW 14
Dave Kudrave
Adrian Fernandez

ROW 15
Robbie Buhl
Éric Bachelart

ROW 16
Buddy Lazier
Johnny Unser

At the start, however, Scott Goodyear jumped the young californian, while PT and Michael would too a few laps later. A three-man battle for the elad would ensue in the first few laps, with Goodyear doing his best to hold off the championship contenders.

On lap 45, PT tried his luck and.gained the lead, whiel Jeff Gordon managed to draft past Michael in an impressive manoeuvre!

But then, PT goes wide and hits the wall! PT might have just squandered hsi title chances right here with 3 races to go!

Goodyear takes back the lead, but not for long, for Jeff Gordon retook the lead and went flying. For the first time, fans and rivals would get a glimpse of the potential of Jeff Gordon, as the Pennzoil car would lead for much of the race, the Texas crowd on their feet everytime he completed a lap. Only 22 years old, and he's already driving like a future champion.

Meanwhile, behind him, Al Unser Jr, driving a Galmer that finally has a good set up, was closing in on the young rookie. He would take the lead following Gorodn's pit stop. Said pit stop would prove to be disastrous, for a miscommmunication menat that one of the tires was not well put, and the Jim Hall team would lose precious seconds trying to fix the issue.

Little Al would have the like sof Bobby Rahal, Goodyear and the surprising Scott Sharp right behind him as we headed down.the last 20 laps, while Michqel Andretti simply cruied down in 6th behind his father Mario, for Emerson Fittipaldi retired from a blown engine, thus giving Michael more leeway in the standings, putfing one hand on the title.

At the end of everything, Al Unser Jr finally gets into winners circle in 1993, winning his 4th consecutive Texas 500, while Bobby Rahal matches his best season result in 2nd and Scotf Sharp gets on the podium for the first time this season. Jeff Gordon ends up in 7th, a disappointing result considering the excellent drive he made this afternoon.

Little Al becomes the 7th winner of 1993​

Race Results
1. Al Unser Jr 20 pts
2. Bobby Rahal 16 pts
3. Scott Sharp 14 pts
4. Scott Goodyear 12 pts
5. Mario Andretti 10 pts
6. Michael Andretti 6 pts
7. Jeff Gordon 4 pts
8. Raul Boesel 3 pts
9. Wally Dallenbach Jr 2 pts
10. Dave Kudrave 1 pt



Round 15: Bosch Spark Plug Grand Prix of Pennsylvania at Nazareth

ROW 1
Michael Andretti
Emerson Fittipaldi

ROW 2
Raul Boesel
Paul Travy

ROW 3
Bobby Rahal
Mario Andretti

ROW 4
Al Unser Jr
Eddie Cheever

ROW 5
Robby Gordon
Scott Goodyear

ROW 6
Jeff Gordon
Wally Dallenbach Jr

ROW 7
Scott Pruett
Scott Sharp

ROW 8
John Andretti
Davey Hamilton

ROW 9
Robbie Buhl
Davy Jones

ROW 10
Mark Smith
Hiro Matsushita

ROW 11
Dave Kudrave
Robbie Groff

ROW 12
Jimmy Vasser
Scott Brayton

ROW 13
Mauricio Gugelmin
Buddy Lazier

ROW 14
Éric Bachelart
Mike Groff

A sold out crowd came in droves at Nazareth, for Michael has a great opportunity to clinch his third consecutive title here. He'll have to fight for it, though, for Emmo jumped him at the start and PT was in fine form, passing both Michael and Emmo for the lead. The latter was a team order, for PT needed a win to stay in the fight.

PT and Michael would then fight for the majority of the race, taking turns passing each other and deliverign quite the spectacle to the Andretti fans in Nazareth. Michael amnaged to get out fo the pits in front of PT, and would lead almost the entire race afterwards.

However, a menace lurks in the shadows, ready to strike! Scott Goodyear, starting in 10th, benefitted from a risky pit stop strategy by Derrick Walker to get into 3rd right behind PT and Michael! With a lighter tank of fuel and fresher tires, Goodyear went on the move, forcing PT into a msitake to take P2, then fighting Michael for the win. On lap 185, Gpodyear made his move on the inside at the backstraight and made it stick! Goodyear takes the lead, which prompted Michael to enter fight mode, for he needed that win to clinch the title!

However, that's exactly what Goodyear wanted! By pressuring Michael, he makes him lose grip on his tire, and with fresher tires, Goodyear pressed the little fuel he had in his tank to get just enough distance between him and Michael to score an unbelievable victory, his third career win and the 8th different winner this season!

A huge upset win by Goodyear!​

Race Results
1. Scott Goodyear 20 pts
2. Michael Andretti 16 pts
3. Paul Tracy 14 pts
4. Robby Gordon 12 pts
5. Emerson Fittipaldi 10 pts
6. Bobby Rahal 6 pts
7. Scott Sharp 4 pts
8. John Andretti 3 pts
9. Raul Boesel 2 pts
10. Eddie Cheever 1 pt


Despite that loss, Michael still led the championship and had a slightly comfortable gap between him and PT at 21 points. PT would need a miracle at Riverside to take the fight to the final round.

Round 16: L.A Times 500k at Riverside


Some silly season news heading into the penultimate round at Riverside: The Patrick Racing team will take a hiatus in 1994 in order to test the brand new Firestone tires. The american company is looking to enter the series in 1995, and they already signed a contract to provide for Patrick for that season. This comes on the back of Budweiser announcing that they will not renew with Patrick for 1994.

Other news include Pacwest Racing entering two cars next year, signing Scott Sharp of Bettenhausen, while Paul Tracy, regardless if he wins the title or not, will participate in a testing session with the Benetton team in Formula 1 during the off-season, and Bobby Rahal will have a teammate next season, as he will take this year's Indy lights champion, Bryan Herta, under his wing in a 2-year contract.

Finally, Honda has announced that they have made a decision regaridng who they will enter the series with in 1994, and that decision will be formally announced at the conclusion of the season.

ROW 1
Emerson Fittpaldi
Paul Tracy

ROW 2
Michael Andretti
Wally Dallenbach Jr

ROW 3
Eddie Cheever
Mario Andretti

ROW 4
Scott Sharp
Mauricio Gugelmin

ROW 5
Scott Goodyear
Bobby Rahal

ROW 6
Jeff Gordon
Al Unser Jr

ROW 7
Raul Boesel
Robby Gordon

ROW 8
Scott Pruett
Jimmy Vasser

ROW 9
Mark Smith
John Andretti

ROW 10
Davy Jones
Ross Cheever

ROW 11
Hiro Matsushita
Lyn St. James

ROW 12
Scott Brayton
Adrian Fernandez

ROW 13
Robbie Buhl
Andrea Montermini

ROW 14
Éric Bachelart
Robbie Groff

ROW 15
Mike Groff
Dave Kudrave

A perfext qualifying session for PT and Oenske, as they locked up the front row and beat Michael. The race was essentailly Michael trying to play catch up with the Penskes, which fell exactly into the Marlboro cars's gameplan, with Emmo forcing Michael under pressure by being defensive against him. Eventually, it paid off, for Michael would spin and crash at turn 1, thus letting PT cruise to a much needed victory. With this win, PT is now only 1 point behind Michael in the standings as we head to Ontario for the final round, the California 500!

The walker team had an excellent outing once again, with John Andretti having the drive of the race, scoring a podium from a meager 18th place! Finally, Jeff Gordon clinches the rookie of the year title with an 8th palce finish.


RACE RESULTS
1. Paul Tracy 20 pts
2. Emerson fittipaldi 16 pts
3. John Andretti 14 pts
4. Scott Goodyear 12 pts
5. Al Unser Jr 10 pts
6. Scott Sharp 6 pts
7. Bobby Rahal 4 pts
8. Jeff Gordon 3 pts
9. Scott Pruett 2 pts
10. Robby Gordon 1 pt

Title Duel After Riverside

Michael Andretti 167 pts

Paul Tracy 166 pts
​

The 1993 season is going down the wire! Will Michael Andretti complete a historic three-peat? Or will Paul Tracy come to the Benetton test an Indycar champion in only his third year of top flight racing? Who will Honda sign with in 1994?

To be continued....

 

[Huey Louis IX]

PT and Michael Schumacher on the same team, that'sa spicy meatball!

 

[HesitatedEye]

PT and Michael Schumacher on the same team, that'sa spicy meatball!

In 1994 that's a spicy meatball with Option 13 in the background. Paul Tracy is going from either Champion in IndyCar or just missing out to being either the rear gunner for The Michael based on how his teammates went in 94 or a fireball if they still screw with the fuel filler or finally they throw Benneton out the championship and his f1 career is stopped before it started.

 

[kinnikuniverse]

PT and Michael Schumacher on the same team, that'sa spicy meatball!

In 1994 that's a spicy meatball with Option 13 in the background. Paul Tracy is going from either Champion in IndyCar or just missing out to being either the rear gunner for The Michael based on how his teammates went in 94 or a fireball if they still screw with the fuel filler or finally they throw Benneton out the championship and his f1 career is stopped before it started.

He's just testing, mind you. Doesn't mean he's gonna make it. If he does, though, it's gonna be...interesting, to say the least

 

[kinnikuniverse]

Marlboro Indycar World Series 1993 Finale

Round 17: California 500 at Ontario Motor Speedway

Once again, it all comes down to this. 500 miles at the Indianapolis of the west separates Michael Andretti from a third consecutive title, something whoch hasn't been done since Ted Horne in the late 40s. The reigning series and Indy 500 champion put his lola-ford on the pole, but only just, as only 2 miles per hour separated him from his title rival, Penske's Paul Tracy, who is looking to make history as the first canadian to win the Indycar title. And with the Benetton test looming in the horizon, he is more than motivated to accomplish this feat.

​

Before the race, Roger Penske has announced that he will expand to three cars in 1994, announcing the signing of Al Unser Jr in the process, while rumours is becoming increasingly confirmed that Honda will power the Marlboro outfit starting from 1994 onwards.

STARTING GRID

ROW 1
Michael Andretti
Paul Tracy

ROW 2
Emerson Fittipaldi
Bobby Rahal

ROW 3
Scott Goodyear
Robby Gordon

ROW 4
John Andretti
Jeff Gordon

ROW 5
Mario Andretti
Eddie Cheever

ROW 6
Al Unser Jr
Raul Boesel

ROW 7
Scott Pruett
Mark Smith

ROW 8
Mauricio Gugelmin
Adrian Fernandez

ROW 9
Jimmy Vasser
Scott Sharp

ROW 10
Willy T. Ribs
Davey Hamilton

ROW 11
Davy Jones
Buddy Lazier

ROW 12
Scott Brayton
Robbie Buhl

ROW 13
Robbie Groff
Hiro Matsushita

ROW 14
Dave Kudrave
Lyn St. James

ROW 15
Ross Bentley
Éric Bachelart

ROW 16
Mike Groff
Johnny Unser

Celebrities, executives and race fans all gathered at the Ontario Motor Speedway for the second time to witness an epic duel for the championship between Michael and PT. At the start, both title rivals got away from everyone, and oretty much dominated proceedings, while homestate hero Jeff Gordon fought well for the podium spot with Bobby Rahal and Emerson Fittipaldi. In the end, however, the drive of the race belonged to Scott Pruett. The Patrick Racing driver, who will spend the 1994 season testing the Firestone Tires with Patrick, started at a mediocre 18th place, but thanks to judicious pit stops and attrition, managed to finish on the podium! Jeff Gordon, Rahal, Emmo and Goodyear all fought for 4th spot, with Rahal managing to pass Gordon with 3 laps to go to clinch 4th spot.

Up front, PT led most of the laps of the race, with Michael playing catch up. In a scary moment, Michael almost got hit by PT in the pits while exiting, which further added intensity to their duel. The criwd was on the edge of their seats as the rivals exchanged the lead as the lap counter wemt down. In the end, Michael forced PT to take the wrong line, and he would pass PT on the inside at the entry of the front straight. There was no Mario to help him, this time. Michael had to defend himself from PT all alone.

PT gave it his all, burning his tires and poking through every opening. But Michael Andretti held firm, and he would cross the checkered flag to win both the California 500 and his third consecutive title!


Race Results

1. Michael Andretti 20 pts
2. Paul Tracy 16 pts
3. Scott Pruett 14 pts
4. Bobby Rahal 12 pts
5. Jeff Gordon 10 pts
6. Emerson Fittipaldi 6 pts
7. Scott Goodyear 4 pts
8. Jimmy Vasser 3 pts
9. Robby Gordon 2 pts
10. Scott Sharp 1 pt

Final Standings

Michael Andretti 187 pts

Paul Tracy 182 pts

​

As the Andretti family and the Newman-Haas team celebrated Michael's history-making exploit, back in the car park, Jeff Gordon was removing his uniform and watching the car go back into the truck. Jim Hall soon arrived, Followed by Dale Earnhardt and Richard Childress, who were watching the race from the pits.

"Good job out there, kid. Rookie of the year." Jim said, shaking Jeff's hands.

"We gon' need ya in the last 4 races of the season." Richard Childress said. "Dale would appreciate having some help against Rusty and Martin" he said, refering to the tight title race in the Wisnton Cup, which ends in november.

"I'll do whatever it takes to help him." Jeff assured his NASCAR boss.

"Good to hear." Dale said. " A shame ya ain't full time. Would love to see you with us."

"Who knows? maybe once i win everything in Indycars, i might switch." Jeff said.

"I like your attitude, kid." Dale said. "I wish you Good luck for next year. Especially with him comin' over with Honda at Penske." He said as he and Childress parted ways with Jeff and Jim.

"Luck is exactly what we need..." jeff said, thinking about the rumour that Jim told him at Michigan now coming true.

"It's OK, kid." Jim assured the young man. "Don't let that bring you down."

a smile of anticipation and excitement forming on Jeff's lips. "Little Al and Honda at Penske...they're gonna be hard to beat."

"He's coming, too." Jim said.

"I know. We really stood no chance at getting those power plants." Jeff sighed.

"We got that new chassis from England coming in, though. From what i've seen, they might rival the Penskes." Jim Hall said.

"Yeah, but Ganassi got the works deal" Jeff pointed out.

"We got one of them." Jim corrected. "They want to make an immediate impact, and we wanna win again. I say its a good partnership."

Jeff looked at the californian sky as it began to darken.

"I can't wait for next year, man." Jeff said, thinking about the battles that would unfold. "I always wanted to test myself against the best in the world. And now, it's coming true."

"Good." Jim said. "Now, enjoy your time in NASCAR and the holidays. We'll think about next year in due time."


Little did Jeff, Jim and the entire world knew, however, that American Open-Wheel Racing will never be the same again. A new era of Indycar Racing begins...

To Be Continued in...

1994: The Dream Match.​

 

[Huey Louis IX]

Nice season, glad to see Michael defeat PT for his third consecutive title. It's a shame OMS didn't work out IOTL because ending the season there probably would've been really fun. Have you considered tabulating season final point standings for the non-championship contenders? It might be fun to see if there were any other close points battles.

I'm assuming the "him" coming over is David Coulthard. Actually DC in Indycar would've been pretty cool.

 

[kinnikuniverse]

Nice season, glad to see Michael defeat PT for his third consecutive title. It's a shame OMS didn't work out IOTL because ending the season there probably would've been really fun. Have you considered tabulating season final point standings for the non-championship contenders? It might be fun to see if there were any other close points battles.

I always thought Ontario was a fascinating what if. The idea of a west coast counterpart to Indianapolis seemed like a very good idea on paper. Being close to LA, a road course already made for Formula 1 to host the US Grand Prix there, plus you wouldn't have to build Fontana. Texas World, as well, i always found it fascinating, even though it is just a texan version of Michigan layout wise. At least, the drivers wouldn't suffer from dizziness at Texas World in those turbo V8 cars than they did IRL in 2001 at TMS.

Also, nah, i don't have the patience to do a whole table. I already struggle with math as is.

 

[Huey Louis IX]

Also, nah, i don't have the patience to do a whole table. I already struggle with math as is.

Here, I got bored and work was slow:

Michael Andretti 187
Paul Tracy 182
Bobby Rahal 138
Emerson Fittipaldi 134
Raul Boesel 108
Al Unser Jr. 93
Mario Andretti 90
Robby Gordon 89
Scott Goodyear 79
John Andretti 71
Jeff Gordon 59
Scott Pruett 53
Eddie Cheever 44
Wally Dallenbach Jr. 41
Scott Sharp 37
Jimmy Vasser 25
Mauricio Gugelmin 17
Teo Fabi 12
Scott Brayton 10
Robbie Buhl 6
Dale Earnhardt 4
Adrian Fernandez 4
Dave Kudrave 4
Mark Smith 3
Davey Hamilton 2
Davy Jones 2
Robbie Groff 1
Willy T. Ribbs 1

Looks like the battles for third and sixth got pretty tight at the end. Also, IOTL 1994 was the last season Indycar assigned car numbers 1-12 by the previous years' points positions(with some exceptions).

 

[kinnikuniverse]

"Hello i'm Bob Varsha, and Welcome to ESPN Speedworld. Today, we have four very special guests with us in the studio. They are considered the favorites for next year's Marlbori Indycar World Series, and they just pulled off perhaps the biggest acquisitions in American motorsports history. Roger Penske and Emerson Fittipaldi joins us today alongside their two new drives, 2-time Indycar champion Al Unser Jr and former 3-time Formula 1 world champion Ayrton Senna. Gentlemen, it is an honor to have you all here for this interview."

Roger: "Pleasure is ours, too"

Senna: "a pleasure."

Varsha: now, before we ask each of you questions about the upcoming season and how the team prepares for it, i'd like to ask mr. Penske about the new partnership with Honda after so many years running Chevrolet powerplants. What brought the decision to team up with the Japanese manufacturer, and was Senna the dealbreaker in Honda joining your team for 1994 onwards?"

Penske: well, it started early in the season, actually. Back when we brought Ayrton to test with us in the 1993 pre-season, we talked with Honda executives, who were leaving Formula 1 and were considering joining Indycar. While i would say that there was a high chance of us teaming up with them regardless of if Ayrton joined us or not, talks became more and more serious the more it was clear that Ayrton was interested in moving over and join us. Honda and Ayrton has a long history of success together, and we've been regular title contenders in Indycars, so, really, the stars aligned at that point, and everything was made official after the F1 season was over."

Varsha: now, Emerson, you have been very keen on Senna moving over to America and joining Penske and Indycar. How does it feel like, finally having your dream come true?

Emmo: it is very exciting! I've been talking alot with Ayrton ever since the test in 93, talking to him about how North America has a different atmosphere than Formula 1, how he would feel renewed here and that he will be competitive right away. And yes, it is a dream come true, i've always wanted to drive with him. It is a huge get for Indycar racing.

Senna: and i always wanted to drive with Emmo, too.

Varsha: now, Ayrton, you come over to America after 10 years in Formula 1, where you won three world championships and became the recordman for pole positions. Now, you reunite with Honda in Indycars with Penske. What led to the decision of jumping ship?


Senna: it is a combination of factors, really. At first, i wanted to go to Williams, since Alain Prost was retiring, but the more the season went on, the more i felt sick of it all. Of Formula 1, of all the politics, the repetitive nature of it all. The decision by Williams and Renault to go with Prost's teammate Jean Alesi as number 1 driver was also a factor, and Ferrari was interesting since Mansell was also retiring, but at that point, I wanted out. Emmo gave me a call, told me that Honda would be onboard and that they would be willing to cover a portion of my salary, and that was pretty much it, really.

Varsha: Now, Ayrton, your talents on road courses and street tracks is no stranger to anyone, but thsi year, you will drive on oval circuits, including the Indianapolis 500, for the first time ever. What are the expectations regarding that aspect of Indycar racing?

Senna: it's the same expectations as on the road courses: to win. I'm coming over precisely because it's a new environement. The Indy 500 is a brand new challenge, and i really needed this change, to try something new. We have a great team here with Penske Honda, and i'm confident that i will adapt immediately.

Varsha: is winning the Indy 500 and the championship in the visor?

Senna: it's always the goal.

Penske: it's been 6 years since we won the title, and 7 since we last won at Indy. We are due.

Varsha: now, Al, you sign with Penske after 5 years with Galles Racing, where you won your second Isnycar title in 1990 and finished runner-up at Indianapolis in 1992 to Scott Goodyear in the closest finish in Indy 500 history. How does it feel, to join a team such as Penske and teaming up with Ayrton Senna?

Little Al: It's unbelievable, Bob. I'll always be grateful of my time with Rick Galles, but i'm at the stage in my career where i wanna get that Indy 500 win. We have a great team at the Marlboro Honda squad, and teaming up with Senna, not even in my wildest dream i would've thought it was possible. Senna coming here is proof that Indycar has become a massive, global series, and it can only do good for us and the series as a whole

Varsha: now, the experts predict that the team are the favorites to win the 1994 Marlboro Championship. the question on everyone' s mind is: how is the team gonna work? Are there steps taken to ensure that there will be no situation similar to the one between Ayrton and Alain Prost with Little Al?

Penske: we'll make sure everyone at Team Penske is treated as equals. I made part of my expectations to everyone, including those two gentlemen right here, and they will make sure to make it work.

Senna, teasingly: and don't worry, Al is much nicer than Prost!

Varsha, laughing: alright, thank you for this interview, gentlemen, and we'll see you in Atlanta for the season opener! Coming up next, Formula 1 talk, with David Hobbs discussing with us about Paul Tracy's contract fallout with Benetton and subsequent signing with Mclaren for the 1994 season. We'll be right back!

 

[HesitatedEye]

I'm surprised Prost went to Williams if Nigel was still there, especially after 1990. The only way I can realistically see that happening is if Nigel used the outright Number 1 clause in his contract and Prost had more issues in 93 with the Williams than he did in OTL. However, you mention Alesi was outright number 1 in 94 which suggests Nigel didn't stay at Williams. Realistically Damon getting his chance in 94 would mean that DC might end up in a Ferrari or a McLaren a year early the biggest thing I would say is if Williams can keep Newey if they do that then it blows up a bunch of butterflies.

 

[kinnikuniverse]

I'm surprised Prost went to Williams if Nigel was still there, especially after 1990. The only way I can realistically see that happening is if Nigel used the outright Number 1 clause in his contract and Prost had more issues in 93 with the Williams than he did in OTL. However, you mention Alesi was outright number 1 in 94 which suggests Nigel didn't stay at Williams. Realistically Damon getting his chance in 94 would mean that DC might end up in a Ferrari or a McLaren a year early the biggest thing I would say is if Williams can keep Newey if they do that then it blows up a bunch of butterflies.

Here, Prost goes to Williams in 1990, which means Mansell stays at Ferrari and becomes the outright number 1 at the Scuderia. Because of that, Jean Alesi joins Williams in 1992, which is the french's wet dream, Prost and Alesi together at a Renault-powered team.

 

[HesitatedEye]

Here, Prost goes to Williams in 1990, which means Mansell stays at Ferrari and becomes the outright number 1 at the Scuderia. Because of that, Jean Alesi joins Williams in 1992, which is the french's wet dream, Prost and Alesi together at a Renault-powered team.

Ah well, I hope Il Leone at least got the 1990 World Title he deserves at least one. Senna can still win 88, 89 and 91.

 

[Huey Louis IX]

Penske Honda with Emmo, Little Al and Senna is going to be one hell of a squad, I don't see Michael getting his four-peat unless something goes awry. I'm hoping a different team exploits the loophole in USAC's rulebook for stock block engines at Indy but I'm not sure if any other team has the resources to do so as effectively as Penske did IOTL. I'm excited to see what 1994 will bring.

How much of Ron Dennis' equipment is PT gonna destroy?

 

[HesitatedEye]

One question since Penske has Honda power who's gonna build the Beast or have you butterflied that away?

 

[HesitatedEye]

Penske Honda with Emmo, Little Al and Senna is going to be one hell of a squad, I don't see Michael getting his four-peat unless something goes awry. I'm hoping a different team exploits the loophole in USAC's rulebook for stock block engines at Indy but I'm not sure if any other team has the resources to do so as effectively as Penske did IOTL. I'm excited to see what 1994 will bring.

How much of Ron Dennis' equipment is PT gonna destroy?

Considering Mclaren's engines went boom so often in 94 he might be able to get away with saying it was the car and not him for a change.

 

[kinnikuniverse]

Penske Honda with Emmo, Little Al and Senna is going to be one hell of a squad, I don't see Michael getting his four-peat unless something goes awry. I'm hoping a different team exploits the loophole in USAC's rulebook for stock block engines at Indy but I'm not sure if any other team has the resources to do so as effectively as Penske did IOTL. I'm excited to see what 1994 will bring.

One question since Penske has Honda power who's gonna build the Beast or have you butterflied that away?

Remember that, ITTL, with Marlboro staying on as title sponsor and Indycar restrusturing itself more along the likes of FOM/FOCA with Indycar Inc. as its owner and And CART as the teams union, there is more money into the sport, meaning teams would have more ressources to do something similar. Though i can't guarantee that it will happen. There's only one way to find out

 

[kinnikuniverse]

Marlboro Indycar World Series 1994 Season Preview

Schedule

1. Valvoline 200 - Atlanta Motor Speedway (O) - March 20th
2. Jimmy Bryant Memorial - Phoenix International Raceway (O) - April 10th
3. Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach (S) - April 17th
4. 78th Indianapolis 500 (O) - May 29th
5. Rex Mays Classic - Milwaukee Mile (O) - June 5th
6. Budweiser Grand Prix of New York at the Glen - Watkins Glen (R) - June 12th
7. GI Joe's 200 at Portland (R) - June 26th
8. New England 200 - New Hampshire (O) - July 10th
9. Molson Indy Toronto (S) - July 17th
10. Marlboro Michigan 500 (O) - July 31st
11. Budweiser Grand Prix of Cleveland (S) - August 14
12. Miller Genuine Draft 200 - Mid-Ohio (R) - August 21st
13. Texaco Havoline 200 - Road America - September 4th
14. Texas 500 at Texas World Speedway (O) - September 11th
15. Bosch Spark Plug Grand Prix of Pennsylvania - Nazareth (O) - September 18th
16. L.A Times 500k - Riverside (R) - October 9th
17. California 500 at Ontario Motor Speedway (O) - October 16th


Teams and Drivers

Texaco Havoline Newman-Haas Racing
Lola T94/00-Ford Cosworth
#1 Michael Andretti
# 6 Mario Andretti

Newman-Haas and Michael Andretti has achieved the three-peat, and they are now looking for an unprecedented 4-in-a-row. However, they are far from the favorites in 1994, with the Lola-Ford package, for the first time, showing signs of uncompetitiveness if pre-season testing is anything to come by. 1994 will also be Mario Andretti's final full-time year of racing, signaling the end of an era for both the team and Indcar racing.

Marlboro Team Penske Honda
Penske PC-23-Honda
#31 Al Unser Jr
#2 Ayrton Senna (R)
#4 Emerson Fittipaldi

Ayrton Senna has arrived in Indycars, bringing with him a global media circus that hasn't been seen before in Indycars. Just his presence alone allowed Indycar to sign TV Deals in Japan with TV Tokyo, Eurosports and Globo TV in Brazil, and his arrival divided opinion. Racing fans all over the world are drooling, non-north american racing fans are gonna watch indycars for the first time ever, while many teams and certain executives, both in Indycar and Formula 1, have been expressing discontent claiming that either Senna is overshadowing homegrown talents like Jeff Gordon or calling Senna a washed up has been who can't keep up with the modern F1 landscape.

But Roger Penske and Senna don't give zero craps about all of this. They are focused on one thing and one thing only: win everything in sight. Al Unssr Jr comes onboard as Senna's teammate, and Emerson Fittipaldi stays onboard, most likely as a mediator between Little Al and Senna to avoid a senna-prost situation. Finally, Honda enters the series, witth the PC-23 being powered by a potent V8 engine.


Target Chip Ganassi
Reynard 94I-Ford Cosworth
#8 Robby Gordon
#10 Eddie Cheever

A brand new chassis build by famed lower formulae constructor Adrian Reynard will make its debut this year, with no less than 8 full-time Reynard 94Is on the grid this year. Chip Ganassi got two of the four works chassis, looking really fast in pre-season testing, potentially the only package to challenge the Penske-Hodas even remotely close this year. Both Robby Gordon and Eddie Cheever are in contract years, however, with the younger Robby expected to stay with the rapidly rising Target outfit.


Team Rahal-Hogan
Lola T94/00-Chevrolet-Ilmor
#12 Bobby Rahal - Miller Genuine Draft
#33 Bryan Herta (R) - Duracell

With new sponsor Duracell funding a second car, Bobby Rahal took 1993 Indy Lights champion Bryan Herta under his wing in a three season contract. Herta has shown promise during testing, albeit the Lola-Chevrolet package doesn't seem quite like the it packcage to have this season.

Galles Racing
Lola T94/00-Chevrolet-Ilmor
#3 Wally Dallenbach Jr. - Valvoline
#18 Adrian Fernandez - Tecate

With significant sponsorship money lost following the departure of Al Unser Jr and Kraco, Galles Racing abandons their Galmer chassis for Lolas this year. Wally Dallenbach Jr gets promoted to the Valvoline car, while Mexican Adrian Fernandez goes full time. It is expected that Valvoline would leave the team after this season, though.

Craftsman Tools Arciero-Wells Racing
Penske PC-22-Chevrolet-Ilmor
#25 Mark Smith

A slightly better season for Arciero-Wells, with Mark Smith qualifying relatively well in the Penske-Chevy, but failing to convert that to points most of the time.

Pennzoil Hall VDS Racing
Reynard 94I-Chevrolet-Ilmor
#11 Jeff Gordon

Jim Hall, always an innovator, became one of the first teams to get the new Reynard Chassis. Jeff Gordon, now in his sophomore season, looks to go one better and get that first win in 1994, albeit it will take a lot of work to beat the penskes.

Alumax Bettenhausen Racing
Penske PC-22-Chevrolet-ilmor
#16 Robbie Groff

Another string of good performances by Scott Sharp led to the 1991 Trans-Am champion being poached by the ambitious Pacwest racing squad. Tony Bettenhausen Jr. Replaced him with a surprise choice in Robbie Groff. Considering he scored points with the dreadful Indy Regency car last season, Groff is certainly more talented than his older brother, and being in a more competitive car might showcase his skills more fairly.

Walker Racing
LolaT94/00-Ford Cosworth
# 9 Scott Goodyear - Mackenzie Financials
#15 John Andretti - Molson
Lola T93/00-Ford Cosworth
# 24 David Empringham (R) - Canadian Tire (500 milers, Portland, Cleveland, Toronto and Road America)

Despite only winning once in 1993 thanks to Scott Goodyear's exploits in Nazareth, the Walker racing had a better overall season, with John Andretti turning the lineup into a very good, consistent one. Even more canadian sponsors joins the team, as Canadian Tire finances the part-time entry of 1993 Formula Atlantic Champion David Empringham, who will compete in the 500 milers, the larger road courses and his home race at Toronto.


AJ Foyt Enterprises
Lola T94/00-Buick
#14 Davy Jones - Copenhagen
#48 Davey Hamilton (Ovals) - Marmon Group
#48 Dave Kudrave (road courses) - Marmon Group

AJ Foyt continues the same operation as the last 2 years, with Dave Kudrave becoming the road course specialist, bringing sponsorship from the Marmon Group following Duracell defecting to Rahal-Hogan.

Panasonic Dick Simon Racing
Lola T94/00-Buick
#5 Raul Boesel
#22 Hiro Matsushita

No changes at Dick Simon, who had their best season yet last year, with Raul Boesel scoring his and the team his first ever win.

Player's Forsythe Green Racing
Reynard 94I-Ford Cosworth
#27 Jacques Villeneuve (R)
#99 Claude Bourbonnais (R) (500 milers, Portland, Toronto, Cleveland and Road America)

Gerry Forsythe, 1983 Indycar champion with Teo Fabi, finally makes his comeback to Indycar, teaming up with the very promising Green outfit that narrowly missed put on the Formula Atlantic title last year. Jacques Villeneuve, son of Formula 1 world champion and 1976 Formula Atlantic champion Gilles Villeneuve, is considered one of the absolute top prospects in the wolrd of motorsports, and he is expected to be a solid runner-up to Senna in the rookie of the year standings. His Formula Atlantic teammate, Claude Bourbonnais, will compete on a part-time basis.

Pacwest Racing
Reynard 94I-Chevrolet
#17 Scott Sharp - Visa
#88 Mauricio Gugelmin - Hollywood Cigarettes

The ambitious pacwest racing squad expands to two cars, bringing on board two new reynard chassis and 1992 ROY Scott Sharp to drive alongside Mauricio Gugelmin.


Della Penna Motorsports
Reynard 94I-Ford Cosworth
#47 Jimmy Vasser - Ralphs

Jimmy Vasser shocked the Indycar wolrd by getting 3rd place at Phoenix last year. Feeling perhaps a little too confident, John Della Penna surprisingly bought a Reynard chassis to help Vasser score more points, though perhaps stretchign the team's budget here.

Payton Coyne Racing
Lola T94/00-Chevrolet
#19 Willy T. Ribs - Coors Light
#39 Robbie Buhl - Mi-Jack

Chicago Bears legend Walter Payton buys a 49% stake in Dale Coyne's team, further showcasing the attraction power of Indycar racing. Willy T. Ribs, who have been having a ressurgence after leading Dan Gurney's AAR Eagle Toyota to both the IMSA title and a historic victory at Le Mans, returns to Indycar racing with Coors Light sponsorship under Payton's suggestion, hoping to show he still has what it takes at the highest level.

Hemelgarn Racing
Reynard 94I-Buick
#81 Buddy Lazier - Delta Faucet

Hemelgar, with its new sponsor delta faucet, buys the last of the available Reynards for eternal underdog Buddy Lazier, who once again scored the odd points last year.

Indy Regency Racing
Lola T93/00-Buick
#28 Chris Smith (R) - Quaker State

This hire by the low-standing Indy Regency squad is only made possible due to the rules stipulating a minimum of 3 full time american rookies oer season. While Chris Smith does have talent, what with him being 1992 Formula Atlantic champion, teams are starting to get more and more annoyed at the rule, especially the smaller squad looking for pay drivers. A future subject of debate in the upcoming CBA meetings in two years from now?

Interstate Batteries Pagan Racing
Lola T93/00-Buick
#21 Jeff Andretti
The small Pagan Racing outfit, which fielded Jeff Andretti at Indianapolis, goes full-time with both Jeff Andretti back onboard and sponsorship from Bobby Pabonte's sponsors Interstae Batteries.

Budweiser King Racing
Lola T94/00-Ford
#40 Robbie Stanley (R)

A big surprise from Budweiser this year, for they ditch Patrick Racing to team up with Kenny Bernstein thanks to whatever kind of devil magic the latter casted. Reigning 2-time USAC Sprint Car Champion Robbie Stanley, who showed some promise at Indianapolis for Menard last year, joins the series full time, and while he could be a massive spoiler on the ovals, questions remaisn over his lack of experience on road courses. Yet another case for the smaller teams who wants to reduce the number of full time american rookies in the next CBA...

 

[Huey Louis IX]

A big surprise from Budweiser this year, for they ditch Patrick Racing to team up with Kenny Bernstein thanks to whatever kind of devil magic the latter casted.

His dragsters on the NHRA circuit were sponsored by Budweiser for many years, also his OTL Indy 500 entries in 1993-94. Stanley is certainly a bold choice for a full-time ride, I'm interested to see how his career pans out. Will he be a Pancho Carter or a Donnie Beechler?

Also, for this year you have the Robbie Groff/Bettenhausen entry listed as #31, same as Unser Jr.

EDIT- You also have the Regency team with Chris Smith listed as #31...

 

[kinnikuniverse]

His dragsters on the NHRA circuit were sponsored by Budweiser for many years, also his OTL Indy 500 entries in 1993-94. Stanley is certainly a bold choice for a full-time ride, I'm interested to see how his career pans out. Will he be a Pancho Carter or a Donnie Beechler?

Also, for this year you have the Robbie Groff/Bettenhausen entry listed as #31, same as Unser Jr.

EDIT- You also have the Regency team with Chris Smith listed as #31...

Fixed!