Thermal Blackout, IndyCar Drama & Inside the New IMS Museum

In this packed episode of The Pits Are Open, host Will Marotti dives into the controversy at the IndyCar Thermal Club race, the state of TV coverage on FOX, and an exclusive first look inside the completely renovated Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Special Guests:

✅ Tony Donahue (Motorsports Podcaster & Broadcaster) – Shares his take on the 15-minute FOX broadcast blackout, thermal racing logistics, driver drama (including Pato O’Ward’s fiery comments), and the debate over whether IndyCar really needs a new chassis. He also previews what's to come in the 2024 IndyCar season and talks about rising stars and the challenges of attracting fans.

✅ Jason Van Sickle (VP of Curation & Education, IMS Museum) – Offers a sneak peek into the $90 million museum renovation, including high-tech upgrades, new interactive exhibits, rare Team Penske cars, a Brickyard 400 tribute, and historic winning cars. Learn how the revamped museum brings Indy 500 history to life—and why it’s a must-visit for racing fans.

Highlights from this episode:

FOX blackout and broadcast challenges during the Thermal Club race

Pato O’Ward vs. Chevy teams: Was his rant justified?

Should IndyCar build a new car? Tony and Will weigh the pros and cons

Behind the scenes of the IMS Museum renovation

Simulators, historic race cars, and family-friendly upgrades at the new museum

The Spirit of Speedway book and why IndyCar needs to connect with young fans

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