Indy NXT - Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2

The Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2 features the Indy NXT by Firestone series at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. This race represents the second event of the weekend for the Indy NXT series, formerly known as Indy Lights, and takes place alongside the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at one of North America's most challenging road courses.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Circuit Details

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca presents a demanding 2.238-mile road course with 11 turns and dramatic elevation changes. The track features 180 feet of total elevation variation, which creates a unique challenge for drivers competing in the Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2.

The Corkscrew stands as the circuit's signature feature. This downhill combination of turns 8 and 8A drops 59 feet across just 450 feet of track length. The apex of turn 8 features a 12% drop, while turn 8A increases to an 18% decline. From turn 8 to turn 9, the track falls 109 feet in total elevation.

The facility completed a full repaving project in 2023 and added the Mission Foods Bridge. The track holds an FIA Grade 2 certification and has hosted open-wheel racing since 1983, when the first Indy car race took place at the venue.

Indy NXT Technical Specifications

The Indy NXT series uses a spec chassis and engine package to provide equal competition among drivers. All competitors race the Dallara IL-15 chassis paired with an AER 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Car Specifications

The AER engine produces approximately 450 horsepower during normal operation. Drivers can access an additional 50 horsepower through the push-to-pass feature. The engine design allows teams to run an entire season without requiring a rebuild.

Each car weighs 1,400 pounds without driver and fuel. The six-speed sequential semi-automatic gearbox delivers power to Firestone racing tires. All cars run on VP Racing Fuels 101 RON unleaded fuel.

Safety features include headrests, specialized seats, a secondary pedal bulkhead, and zylon panels. The Dallara IL-15 meets FIA specifications and adheres to INDYCAR safety standards.

Series Background

Indy NXT serves as the top level of the Road to Indy ladder system. The series prepares drivers for advancement to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. IndyCar sanctioned the current series structure beginning in 2002 as the Infiniti Pro Series, with the Indy Lights name returning in 2008 following the unification of competing open-wheel series. The organization rebranded the championship as Indy NXT for the 2023 season.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca was constructed in 1957 on land that was part of the U.S. Army's Fort Ord. The facility replaced the Pebble Beach Road Races, which officials deemed too dangerous to continue. The track's name translates from Spanish as "dry lake," referencing the former lakebed where the circuit now sits.

What to Expect at the Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2

September weather in Monterey typically offers comfortable conditions. Average high temperatures reach around 67°F, with lows near 55°F. Rain remains unlikely, with precipitation chances below 3%. Cloud cover stays minimal, ranging from 10% to 17%.

The Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will showcase developing talent in the Indy NXT series. The challenging circuit layout, combined with the significant elevation changes and the demanding Corkscrew section, creates a true test of driver skill and car control.

FOX broadcasts NTT INDYCAR SERIES races in the United States, with coverage typically extending to supporting series like Indy NXT. The race weekend at Monterey, California brings together top-level IndyCar competition alongside the next generation of open-wheel talent competing in the Indy NXT series.

The track configuration and elevation changes at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca reward precise driving and strong car setup. Teams must balance mechanical grip needs for the slower technical sections with aerodynamic requirements for faster portions of the circuit. The Grand Prix of Monterey Race 2 will demonstrate which drivers and teams can master these varied demands.