Good Moves: Major Changes Coming For INDYCAR Series

Like Will Power making a desperate last-lap pass, the IZOD INDYCAR Series is making some great moves this offseason. The latest changes were announced this week in Indianapolis with the majority of the drivers present.

The first change may have been subtle if you haven't caught it yet. The Series has begun to transition from the "Izod IndyCar Series" to the "IZOD INDYCAR SERIES". Not sure if this is a permanent change, but it was announced earlier this week, and has been featured on the new logos surrounding all of the sport's public appearances. This change is also notable on the website, INDYCAR.com.

By now I am sure you have heard of this next change. The oval races this season will now have double-file restarts, much like NASCAR does. The rules will be different when considering the placement of cars that are not on the lead lap, but they believe this will add more excitement to the restarts. The drivers have not had a lot of positive things to say about this change.

Helio Castroneves believes that it could be exciting, but it will increase the risk of more accidents. He also said that he believes they should hold off on using this at the Indianapolis 500, and begin the change at the next oval event. There is no oval race before the Indy 500 this year.

The Edmonton race is back on the schedule, and while it may not be one of the favorites among drivers, teams, and fans, it's always a good thing to have another event on the schedule.

The Indy 500 Centennial Tour has kicked off, as a number of drivers and former greats like Mario Andretti took flight overseas to Germany. There are video documentaries being updated during each day. The INDYCAR SERIES has also put out a new music video featuring the State of INDYCAR. You can see that video here.

There are a number of new sponsors and teams for the upcoming year, and the competition should be even greater across the board.

The first race of the season at St. Petersburg is just 70 days away. The 100th year anniversary of the running of the Indianapolis 500 is 133 days away, which is exactly 19 weeks.