Pit crew rules amended ahead of start

The sanctioning organisation had originally mandated that teams could only send two crewmen over the wall for any pit stops made under yellow flag conditions. The new rule gives teams the option of sending the usual crew of six over the wall for yellow flag stops, but only if the team changes all four tyres during the stop. Teams still retain the option of using just two crewmen for all other yellow flag stops.

Also still required for Monday's 165-lap race are a minimum of two green-flag pit stops featuring a four-tyre change. But tyre wear and fuel consumption will likely dictate at least one more pit service during the course of the event.

Pole winner and CART championship leader Paul Tracy said: "I guess that's the million dollar question. We don't know how long the tyres are going to last. I ran tyres (Sunday) morning for about 65 laps, and the cords were showing. It's a 165-lap race, so that doesn't equate to the number. It all depends on what happens.

"Another issue is the fuel mileage. Can you do the fuel mileage to do two stops, as well? The pace will be slower. Obviously we'll just have to wait and see."