After its strong start to the IndyCar season, highlighted by Enrique Bernoldi's fifth place in St Pete, Conquest Racing carries plenty of momentum to Long Beach, but both the Brazilian and French team-mate Franck Perera have limited experience in the DP01 under their belt. However, Perera topped the final day at Sebring in February, and is looking forward to racing the turbo-charged car in California.
"It will be a little weird getting into the cockpit of the Panoz after getting used to the Dallara these past weeks, but I am looking forward to it," the Atlantic Series graduate admitted, "We were quick in the car in the Sebring test in February and I think we can aim for a podium finish in Long Beach. This race gives us a really good chance of scoring some important IndyCar points but I think, overall, this weekend will be a great show for the fans - a last chance for them to see the Champ Cars in action.”
Rounding out the entry is Rocketsports, like Forsythe a team that decided against going to the unified IndyCar Series. Paul Gentilozzi's team - which ran Bernoldi in pre-season CCWS testing - will field another Brazilian, the returning Antonio Pizzonia, alongside Champ Car novice Juho Annala. Like Conquest, the team heads to California with little in the way of DP01 experience behind the wheel, with Annala having but one test and Pizzonia having to miss out due to clashing commitments at home.
This will be my first time competing, not only in Long Beach, but in a Champ Car, but I can't wait for the experience," the Finn confirmed, "I was doing a lot of homework in preparation for this event and, after watching several race tapes, I feel that I have a good idea of what to expect - and the expectations of pure enjoyment will definitely be on top of the list.”
As has been the case in recent seasons, Bridgestone will provide the field with the choice of two tyre compounds, both of which have to be run at some point during the race - but with a twist.
"We are implementing some new rules and specifications that will enhance the on-track competition," explained executive director Al Speyer, "We have widened the gap between our primary and alternate tyres and are requiring teams to employ one unused set of alternates during the race, which is essentially like adding a third compound into the mix. Tyre strategy and more cars should lead to lots of on-track excitement, which will provide a fitting tribute to the Champ Car World Series.
"This weekend is certainly going to be a bittersweet one for Bridgestone Motorsport as, while we will be saying farewell to the Champ Car World Series, we will also be welcoming back some familiar faces and long-time Bridgestone supporters who are hopping into cars to send the series off in style. Seeing 20 Champ Cars on track for the series' final event will be a special moment."
