IndyCar Series Returns to Phoenix; Dixon with the Victory

By Francisco Romero

Eleven years had past since IndyCar racing last made a stop in Phoenix. On Saturday night more than 20,000 spectators witnessed the Verizon IndyCar Series at Phoenix International Raceway.

Scott Dixon took the victory after leading the final 155 of 200 laps.

“This was probably one of the toughest short ovals I can think of in recent history,” said Dixon after the race. “The car was super-fast. I think we had the best car out there on strategies and pit stops,” he added.

Dixon started sixth in the No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet and went on to earn the 39th win of his Indy car career, tying him with Al Unser for fourth in all-time victories.

Simon Pagenaud, who finished second Saturday night, leads the Verizon IndyCar series with 83 points, four ahead of Dixon.

Colombian driver Juan Pablo Montoya finished 9^th on Saturday, but is 3^rd in the overall series standing.

Montoya led from lap 40-95.

The other real winner of the event was the City of Phoenix area, as the IndyCar Series plans to return to the valley next year.

Bryan Sperber, president of PIR was more than satisfied with the crowd who showed up for the event.

PIR has also secured a major sponsor in Desert Diamond West Valley.

For next year PIR might have to modify the date of the race since the NCAA Men’s Final Four will be held in the Phoenix Area.