Hybrid Testing at IMS, Kyle Larson's IndyCar Future, & David Land Talks Indy 500 Drama
In this loaded episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti is joined by IndyStar’s Nathan Brown and motorsports content creator David Land to break down the latest from Indianapolis—including test day developments, driver crashes, and the evolving impact of hybrid systems on IndyCar.
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Featured Guests:
✅ Nathan Brown (Motorsports Reporter, IndyStar) – Gives a detailed recap of IndyCar testing at IMS, including hybrid reliability issues, speed trade-offs, and the implications for qualifying and race strategy at the Indy 500. Nathan also explains the current chassis shortage and reflects on the absence of female drivers this year.
✅ David Land (YouTuber, DL500 Club Host, Co-Host of Unverified) – Offers sharp commentary on Kyle Larson’s uncertain Indy 500 future, hybrid performance concerns, and whether Penske’s McLaughlin is the true favorite this year. David also shares behind-the-scenes insights on the revamped IMS Museum, the month of May media grind, and what it takes to break into racing media through content creation.
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Key Topics Covered:
Hybrid System Impact: How 100 extra pounds and 60 HP boost could change late-race strategy
Takuma Sato & Kyle Larson Crashes: What went wrong and why Sato’s backup car could struggle
Chassis Shortage & Female Driver Absence: Why Katherine Legge isn’t on the 2024 grid and what it means for future diversity
Kyle Larson’s Comments: Why he might not return to the Indy 500 for another 15+ years
Penske & Chevy Sandbagging?: Why experts think Penske hasn’t shown their hand yet
Barber GP Preview: Can McLaughlin three-peat? Will Fox improve its broadcast?
The New IMS Museum: A “must-visit” emotional experience every racing fan should see
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Bonus Mentions:
Spirit of Speedway children's book now available on thepitsareopen.com
Trans Am Series on SpeedSport1 this weekend
David Land on YouTube and Patreon (DL500 Club)
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Watch & Listen:
YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and TikTok
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