The Race F1 Podcast BONUS: Indycar at war! Ep. 2 - The nightmare attempt to rival the Indy 500
Jan 13, 2026
In this engaging discussion, motorsport journalist Edd Straw and Indy car historian John Oreovicz dive into the chaotic US 500 of 1996, where CART attempted to challenge the Indy 500. They explore the infamous three-wide start crash and its damaging effects on CART's image. The conversation reveals the intense atmosphere among journalists and the ensuing rivalry between CART and IRL. Edd and John also reflect on how the tensions and struggles shaped the future of IndyCar racing, highlighting the eventual migration of teams back to Indianapolis.
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Michigan's Flawed Indy Rival
- The US 500 at Michigan tried to mimic the Indy 500 but felt flat and out of place on Memorial Day weekend.
- The three-wide start caused a huge first-lap crash that became the defining memory of the event.
Organisation, Not Just Drivers, At Fault
- The three-wide start and poor organisation made the US 500 crash inevitable and catastrophic for CART's image.
- Edd Straw argues organisational complacency and prior messy attempts were key contributors to the fiasco.
Humiliation Reaches Indianapolis
- News of Michigan's start crash filtered into the Indy press box during the Indy 500, humiliating CART fans and journalists.
- John Oreovicz calls the moment an absolute disaster and a pivotal blow to CART's standing.
