Franchitti fastest in testing at Infineon Raceway

[Source: Infineon Raceway press release]

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SONOMA, Calif. (April 9, 2012) – Target Chip Ganassi Racing’s Dario Franchitti posted the quickest time on Monday, as five IZOD IndyCar® Series teams participated in a one-day test at Infineon Raceway.

Franchitti posted the quickest lap among the 13 drivers at 1 minute, 17.2 seconds over the 12-turn, 2.303-mile road course.  More than 300 fans turned out to watch the test session.

Franchitti was followed by Chip Ganassi Racing teammates Charlie Kimball (1:17.4) and Graham Rahal (1:17.5).  KV Racing Technology teammates E.J Viso (1:17.80) and Tony Kanaan (1:17.84) rounded out the top five.

“I like this track very much,” said Formula One veteran Rubens Barrichello, who was sixth quickest (KV Racing Technology, 1:17.88).  “It’s very difficult with the blind apexes.  It’s good that I can test again, and every time I’m improving.  A track like this is very good and it teaches me a lot.”

Other participants in the test included Team Penske’s Will Power (1:18.5), Ryan Briscoe (1:18.8) and Helio Castroneves (1:80.9), as well as Andretti Autosport’s James Hinchcliffe, Ryan Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti.  All times were reported by the drivers.  No times were available for Hinchcliffe or Hunter-Reay, while Andretti didn’t complete any laps.

“This place is really challenging with the elevation changes.  Even the straight-aways have curves,” said Castroneves, who won in Sonoma in 2008.  “The layout here will always be tough, and I think this year’s race will come down to strategy, particularly with the smaller fuel tanks.  It’s not just about passing.  I can guarantee you one thing – this year’s race will be exciting, not follow-the-leader.”

Infineon Raceway will host the Indy® Grand Prix of Sonoma, Aug. 24-26.  The weekend will also feature the SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge and the Formula Car Championship.  For more information or to purchase tickets, call 800-870-RACE (7223) or visit infineonraceway.com/indycar.