China will host its first race Aug. 19, series officials have put Detroit and Fontana, Calif., back on the schedule, and only four of 15 races are currently slated for ovals. It could change again, too.
The long-awaited schedule had been delayed while the series conducted an investigation into the October crash that killed two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon at Las Vegas. Some critics contended it was too dangerous for the series to race on ovals and only four – Indianapolis, Texas, Iowa and Fontana, Calif. – appear on next year’s calendar.
Series CEO Randy Bernard said the series is in the process of confirming an additional event and is looking at a 17th race.
It’s not clear when those announcements may be made, though the agreement with title sponsor Izod requires the series to hold at least 16 races each season.
