IndyCar Test Day at IMS, F1 Drama Recap, and Hybrid Tech Breakdown
In this on-the-ground episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti brings you live to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for IndyCar testing, while Alex holds down the studio with a sharp recap of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and the evolving 2025 F1 season.
---
Highlights from This Episode:
✅ Live from IMS – Will reports directly from Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s first open test of the season, sharing insights on how the new hybrid power unit is impacting car weight, balance, and speed, plus what drivers are learning ahead of the Indy 500.
✅ F1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix Recap – Alex breaks down Oscar Piastri’s huge win, Max Verstappen’s costly penalty, and why every Formula 1 team already scoring points could signal the end of Red Bull’s dominance.
✅ Why Hybrid Tech Matters – We explore how the extra 100 pounds from IndyCar’s upcoming hybrid systems is changing the driving experience and what that means for qualifying and top-end performance.
✅ Helmet Cams & Driver Fitness – Comparing IndyCar and F1 technology, this episode covers in-car camera perspectives, driver neck training, brake force challenges, and the physical demands of elite-level open-wheel racing.
✅ Exclusive On-Track Footage – Get the closest view yet of cars flying by on test day, plus commentary on team strategies, fan experience, and what to expect heading into May.
---
Also Mentioned:
McLaren rising in F1: Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in contention
Alpine and Williams progress
Upcoming Guests: Nathan Brown (IndyStar) & David Land (IndyCar YouTuber) join the next episode
Spirit of Speedway Book Giveaway
Support the Show: Subscribe, comment, and share to grow the motorsports community
---
Watch & Listen:
YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Visit thepitsareopen.com to sign up for the newsletter and win a personalized copy of Spirit of Speedway