The latest testing session saw the Swede, who recently joined Andretti Global, deliver an impressive performance with a flying lap of 51.9512 seconds (115.724 mph) on the circuit’s shorter 1.67-mile layout. This notable achievement occurred late in the afternoon session, during which he completed a total of 83 laps.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, Ericsson emphasized its importance, especially when acclimating to a new team. He highlighted the extensive learning process involved in familiarizing oneself with new personnel and machinery, given the scarcity of testing opportunities in the modern era.
Expressing his satisfaction with the day’s outcome, Ericsson conveyed his team’s optimism as they anticipate the upcoming event in St. Petersburg.
Following closely behind was Team Penske’s Will Power, securing second place with a best lap of 52.0076 seconds. Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward, who led the morning session, claimed third position after completing 98 laps, the second-highest tally of the day. O’Ward clocked in at 52.0104 seconds.
O’Ward noted his return to his original team, emphasizing the smooth testing day and their readiness for the season opener in St. Pete.
Felix Rosenqvist showcased a strong start to his tenure with Meyer Shank Racing, securing fourth place with a lap time of 52.0305 seconds. Graham Rahal of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing completed the top five, amassing a session-leading 99 laps and achieving a personal best of 52.0598 seconds.
Chip Ganassi Racing’s newcomers Kyffin Simpson and Linus Lundqvist claimed the sixth and seventh spots, respectively. Santino Ferrucci propelled AJ Foyt Racing into the top ten, finishing eighth, followed by Romain Grosjean of Juncos Hollinger Racing in ninth and Marcus Armstrong of Ganassi in tenth.
Remarkably, the top ten drivers were separated by a mere 0.325 seconds.
Rookie Christian Rasmussen of Ed Carpenter Racing secured the 11th position, with Colin Braun of Dale Coyne Racing finishing 12th after completing 67 laps in his debut Indy car outing, trailing Ericsson’s pace by 0.9657 seconds.
Notably, all of the top five drivers from Tuesday’s testing session recorded faster times than the pacesetter from the previous day, Alex Palou.
The anticipation builds for the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, marking the commencement of the 2024 IndyCar Series season on March 10th.
