The qualification format for the Indy 500 has been changed.

      This weekend, qualifying races will take place to determine the starting field for the upcoming Indy 500 race, but just yesterday it became known that the qualifying format will be changed in 2026. This is due to the fact that only 33 entries were submitted for the classic race at the Indianapolis oval in 2026, instead of 34 as in previous years. It is worth reminding that in 2025, Robert Schwartzman caused a real sensation by winning the pole in a Prema Racing car, but this year the Italian team has "dropped out" due to financial problems, and its assets are up for sale. There was some hope that they would participate at least in the Indy 500, but a month ago it became known that this would not happen, and we reported on it. Since there will only be 33 cars this year, which is exactly the number allowed to start the race, there is no need to hold a separate session for the three slowest, giving them a last chance. In the past, the results of such a session would eliminate those who would not qualify for the Indy 500. This year, the format has changed somewhat. Qualifying races will begin on Saturday, and based on their results, the second half of the starting field will be determined, i.e., positions 16th to 33rd. The nine fastest cars will automatically advance to the final qualifying session, which will take place on Sunday, May 17. However, the program for the last day of the weekend will start with a separate session where drivers who showed results from 10th to 15th on Saturday will compete for positions. The top three will advance to the next session lasting about an hour and a half, and 12 drivers will continue to fight for the right to reach the final. After that, the six fastest will compete for the pole. The one who wins it will receive a cash prize of $100,000. The Indy 500 race will take place this year for the 110th time, and it is scheduled for May 24. The team "Drivers, start your engines!" will sound at 12:29 local time – in Moscow it will already be 19:29. And once again, it is regrettable to note that when two such important events, like the Indy 500 and the Canadian Grand Prix, take place on the same day, this approach cannot be considered correct. However, by the time the Formula 1 race starts in Montreal, the winner in Indianapolis will most likely already be determined.