IndyCar – Points Battle TIGHT!

irl trophyGoing into the Motegi race, Ryan Briscoe had a comfortable 25 point lead and with the promise of Penske perfection behind him, looked to be a shoe in to win the Championship with only two races left. But a giant monster pit exit cone attacked him, ending his chance at extending his points lead. You can see our race wrap up for more details on that.

Scott Dixon went on to score maximum points for the weekend (53) for pole, most laps lead and the win. Dario Franchitti took home 2nd, giving him 40 points, and Briscoe who went several laps down due to “Mothra the Cone” took home a Duno-esque tally of 12 points. So not only did Briscoe not capitalize on his 25 point lead going in to Japan, he blew it and then some.

Here is how the points battle shapes up leading into the final race at Homestead:
Dixon: 570
Franchitti: -5
Briscoe: -8

All any of them has to do is win at Homestead to insure that they win the championship. Well, then again, Briscoe would have to win the race and also take home some bonus points for pole or fastest lap to get enough distance between himself and a 2nd place from Dixon along with bonus points.

Scott is clearly in a fantastic position to repeat his Championship from last year. He has the points lead going into the last race and he currently holds the tie break with most wins (5) compared to Franchitti (4) and Briscoe (2). On top of that, Dixon is MONEY on the 1.5 mile ovals. I cant help but think he will be victorious in Miami.

Whatever the results, IndyCar once again has come down to the last race with multiple championship contenders. Again, the hardware will have to wait until the last turn of the last lap before it is insured of its new home.

But with the race being held at Homestead, we will probably be shown the low angle shot the whole race and the Championship celebration will be held in front of the 12 people in the stands. I fear we will once again be embarrassed by lack of attendance in Miami, even though it is the championship decider.

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