Indianapolis MotoGP

Indianapolis enjoys a long and glorious reputation in motorsport. After delivering numerous top-class motorsport events since 1909 the course finally hosted its first Indianapolis MotoGP in 2008. The race was an immediate success and the huge crowds have enjoyed the racing since. The challenging circuit is already popular with riders and teams and the regular resurfacing work adds to the expectation of a great race once again.

2011 Season

The return to Indianapolis will be greatly anticipated by Ducati rider Nicky Hayden. The American loves the track and will be pushing hard to land on the podium and will be desperate to try and claim a victory. Meanwhile there is sure to be a big challenge from previous winners Dani Pedrosa, Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi.

Overview

The modifications to the Indianapolis circuit have created a top-quality MotoGP track. The circuit is similar to the Formula One United States Grand Prix that was used between 200 and 2007 but is not identical. The circuit is 4.216 km in length and includes 16 corners. The lap record is held by Dani Pedrosa, who set a time of 1:39:730 in 2009.

History

The Indianapolis circuit has been holding motorsport events since 1909 but it was not until 2008 that MotoGP arrived at the legendary track. To accommodate the race the there were a number of modifications made to the circuit, however the world-famous oval was not affected. The riders do not race on the banked track but the circuit does include the Brickyard section of the course.

Key Moments

2010

A convincing victory for Dani Pedrosa with Ben Spies and Jorge Lorenzo making up the places.

2009

Jorge Lorenzo wins the race with Nicky Hayden claiming the runner-up place for a second successive year.

2008

Valentino Rossi claims victory in the rain-affected race with local hero Nicky Hayden claiming second place.