VICS: Helio Castroneves Continues to Show Speed

Helio Castroneves was quick on a regular basis last season, posting multiple top-fives over the course of the 16 races.

The speed has certainly carried over to this season if you use the test at Phoenix International Raceway as an indicator as Castroneves topped the charts with the quickest speed of the entire weekend.

“We’re working very close, not only myself, my group No. 3, but the entire Team Penske Hitachi car seems to be very dialed in,” he said. “Again, there were areas we didn’t have time to test when we came here because I was mostly looking for the aero balance. This was the first time I was able to make the car the way I want it.

“So far the track is pretty smooth, no issues. I feel that it’s going to be fast. Obviously, it’s going to be a very tight field. I do believe the rest of the cars are still up to speed, and tomorrow is going to be another fast day.”

While a lot of the drivers were seeing the 1.022 miles for the first time, Castroneves is one of five drivers who has raced there in the past, dating back to the last event in 2005.

“It’s interesting because the characteristic of the track is pretty much the same. When you come into turn one, it’s like, ‘Are you going to turn?’ After the corner, you’re like, ‘Oh, it’s open up’,” Castroneves commented. “It’s very interesting on that scenario. Doesn’t mean it’s easy. Still we’re talking about I don’t know Gs, but I got to check. It’s a lot. It’s very heavy steering wheel, which is going to be even more heavy at night because we going to put fuel in and things like that. Those are the details you and the fans are unfortunately not able to see. But I tell you, it’s very fast, but it’s a lot of fun, too.”

The return of the Arizona track has marked one of anticipation both by drivers and the fans. The excitement only builds in knowing that it will be a Saturday night event when the series returns.

“I think the fans are going to have a great time. They can come and, whatever, celebrate with the winner or celebrate with the guys that didn’t win and still have a good time,” he said. “It will be cool, as well. Obviously, the heat, it tends to change a little bit of the downforce. But when it comes to night, it’s going to be a little more consistent, and you’re going to see a lot of cars becoming faster. That’s why it’s important tonight to find that out what’s going to happen with the chassis.”