Conor Daly, driver for Juncos Hollinger Racing, recently addressed the challenges and criticisms surrounding IndyCar short oval racing following the NTT IndyCar weekend at Iowa Speedway from July 11 to 13. Emphasizing the skill of drivers and efforts by teams, Daly spoke on the importance of recognizing the competitive nature of these events despite lingering doubts about short oval formats.
The 33-year-old competes in the #76 Chevrolet-powered car for Juncos Hollinger Racing. The Iowa short oval, often called
“The fastest Short Track on the Planet,”
has faced sustained criticism over the years, primarily for delivering less thrilling races compared to other tracks on the IndyCar calendar. Daly used his podcast, SpeedStreet, co-hosted with Chase Holden, to counter this viewpoint and highlight the positives from the recent racing weekend.
Conor Daly Addresses Criticism and Highlights Strong Performances at Iowa
On SpeedStreet, Daly reflected on the two races held during the July NTT event, countering the negativity that preceded the weekend. He acknowledged concerns but insisted that IndyCar short oval racing deserved recognition for the quality of competition displayed.
“There was two races in the NTT IndyCar series that happened over the weekend…..And there was a lot of good racing honestly, to talk about…and I think a lot of people were negative nancies going into the race, fair, but as we’ve said multiple times on this program, don’t discount IndyCar short oval racing right now…IndyCar deserves praise. I think the series, the technical officials, leadership, I think you know, a lot of people were complaining going into the weekend.” Daly said (0:23 onwards)
Daly also reflected on the testing period and how initial uncertainty gave way to improved competition as the weekend advanced. The drivers became more aggressive and the races more engaging, particularly in later stages.
“Even at the test I would say that we were unsure, but I think it ended up being two solid races. Not the best races, like the first stint race 1, when we weren’t really sure yet what was really gonna happen yet. Were we gonna save fuel maybe that wasn’t the most exciting, but then it got better, and the drivers got more brave, and we took it into our own hands, I believe, and we made it happen,” he added.
During the Synk 275 race, held at the Iowa short oval, Daly qualified on the front row alongside fellow driver Josef Newgarden and finished seventh, demonstrating strong speed and competitiveness. In the Farm to Finish 275 that followed, he started seventh but had a more challenging race, ultimately finishing 16th.
Reviewing Daly’s Intense Duel with Pato O’Ward at World Wide Technology Raceway
Earlier on June 16, at World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR), Daly engaged in a notable battle with Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward. Starting from 15th position, Daly climbed through the field and even led the race before making a pit stop on lap 190 for fresh tires.
Speaking to Frontstretch after the race, Daly praised O’Ward’s driving style and the competitive nature of their duel.
“We just kept working, every restart, moving forward. Battling with Pato felt really good for the lead. Thought we had a shot at it honestly but the last two pit stops really hurt us.” (0:33 onwards)
“He raced me clean. There’s a reason that guy has got a plane and a bunch of money and he’s one of the best drivers right now. He’s really good, raced me clean and I gotta respect that,” he added.
Daly’s consistent efforts in those races have placed him 18th in the current drivers’ championship standings, holding 184 points to date.
Importance of Recognition for Short Oval Racing and Its Drivers
Conor Daly’s comments come at a critical time when short oval racing in IndyCar is under scrutiny for its entertainment value compared to larger ovals and road courses. By publicly defending the track format and praising the adaptability and courage of drivers and teams, Daly highlights the evolving nature of this motorsport segment.
The acknowledgment of officials and leadership for managing these events amid high expectations reinforces the significance of technical regulation and race management in maintaining competitive balance.
Looking forward, Daly’s perspective may encourage fans and critics alike to appreciate the nuances of short oval racing and its contribution to the diversity of the IndyCar series, potentially boosting interest and supporting further improvements in race formats and strategies.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Conor Daly diabetic?
A. Conor Daly, 33, treats car racing like a regular job. This race car driver from Indiana has been racing since he got his license. Daly was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 14. He’s the only professional race car driver known to live with this condition.
