IRL restores pole bonus point

Since 2001 the driver to lead the most laps in each race has received three bonus points, while the pole-sitter has been given a financial reward but no extra points.

But from this season only two points will be awarded for leading most laps, and one point will go to the driver on pole.

IRL competition president Brian Barnhart said the league wanted to provide a greater reward for qualifying as it had become a bigger part of the race weekend under the new session formats adopted in recent seasons.

"The fight for the pole is full of drama on ovals and on road and street courses," said Barnhart.

"It seems appropriate that the driver who can survive four laps driving on the edge on ovals, or who can make it through three elimination rounds on road and street courses, be rewarded for their efforts with a point towards the championship."

The pole winners will continue to receive $10,000 in prize money at normal rounds, or $100,000 for Indianapolis 500 pole.