China getting on the fast track

The high-octane excitement of IndyCar racing is about to zoom into view in China.

Starting with this weekend's Indianapolis 500, Chinese fans will have access to live coverage of the sport - known for its spectacular crashes and passes - thanks to a new partnership between IndyCar and Mitime Sports. Tencent Sports, High Sport and Guangdong TV will broadcast the races.

The development raises the prospect of China hosting races in future.

"Today is a huge day for IndyCar and we hope it is viewed the same way by motor-sports fans in China," said Stephen Starks, vice-president of IndyCar promoter relations, at the contract-signing ceremony on Thursday in Beijing.

"It's a big step toward the development of the sport in this country which we had for a long time wanted to play an important part."

Although dozens of nations are represented, all 17 IndyCar races currently take place in the United States, starting in Florida in March and ending in California in September.

"Some day we hope to race internationally, and possibly in China, which is very important to us," said Mark Miles, president of IndyCar in a video message.

"Today's signing of partnership is a terrific first step in presenting IndyCar racing to the Chinese people.

"We think IndyCar is the fastest form of motor racing in the world and possibly has the most daring drivers. Since they race over three different courses - city streets, roads and ovals - winning the championship requires versatility," said Miles.

US-based INDYCAR sanctions four series: the premier IndyCar Series (aka ICS) with its centerpiece Indy 500; the Indy Lights developmental series; the Pro Mazda Championship; and the US F2000 National Championship.

They all form part of driver-development program The Road To Indy.

The IndyCarSeries initially raced exclusively on oval tracks, as it was founded in response to the increasing prominence of road and street courses on the CART schedule.

The series abandoned its ovals-only stance in 2005.

Legends of IndyCar include Mario Andretti, Arie Luyendy, Helio Castroneves and Scott Dixon.

Top speeds are around 270 mph, with New Zealander Dixon clocking 275 mph in qualifying for Sunday's Indy 500.

In addition to live coverage, Tencent, High Sport and Guangdong TV will broadcast highlights and features, in anticipation of China one day hosting an IndyCar event.

"The Chinese market is an important one since China is a world leader in the automobile and technological industry," said Starks.

yangxinwei@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 05/26/2017 page22)