Rossi opens IndyCar’s future with IR-28 track debut at IMS

Alexander Rossi became the first driver to bring IndyCar’s future to life on Saturday, completing the inaugural test of the all-new Dallara IR-28 chassis at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.The 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner put the next-generation machine through its first development laps on the iconic 2.439-mile road course, officially beginning the countdown toward its 2028 NTT IndyCar Series debut.

Rossi praised the preparation behind the project after a smooth opening session.

“I’ve been a part of some new car launches before, and I can’t say that any have gone as smooth as this one has,” Rossi said.

“That’s down to everyone involved. We’ve all been waiting for this for a long time. Drivers, fans, teams, sponsors and all of you have been looking forward to it, and now it’s finally here. It’s like Christmas morning!”

Despite damp conditions affecting running, Rossi said the team achieved its goals.

“Everything you could hope for from a day like today was accomplished,” he said. “The fact that the car is completely new and the only real issue we had was replacing one sensor is phenomenal. That’s a huge testament to Dallara, INDYCAR and everyone involved.”

The American was also impressed by the IR-28’s aggressive design and immediate feel.

“Aesthetically, it ticks every box you could hope for,” he said. “I was blown away the first time I saw it. The pictures don’t do it justice.”

For Rossi, testing IndyCar’s next chapter at its most famous venue made the moment even more special.

“To be able to be a part of this next evolution of INDYCAR and do it at IMS, a place that means so much to me and all of us here, is super cool,” he added.

“I get to play a small part in the history and the future of this championship, and that’s a big privilege.”