Barrichello entitled to extra track time allowed for rookies after IndyCar re-evaluates his status
Rubens Barrichello will be entitled to the extra track time allowed for rookies at some IndyCar rounds after the series re-evaluated his status
Because of his lengthy Formula 1 experience, Barrichello was only classified as a rookie for oval rounds when he joined the IndyCar Series with KV Racing Technology this year.
After a request from the team, his status has now been reconsidered.
The Brazilian will still not be a contender for the Rookie of the Year prize, but he will be able to participate in the opening half hour of practice on most road and street courses, which is reserved for newcomers and drivers outside the top 10 in the championship, and gets the additional set of tyres permitted for rookies.
Barrichello is currently 10th in the standings after finishing eighth in the last round at Barber Motorsports Park.
IndyCar's competition president Beaux Barfield acknowledged that the previous situation had potentially put Barrichello at a disadvantage.
"[On] street circuits that can be quirky and difficult to learn he has the benefit of that extra set of tyres and the extra 30 minutes of practice to learn the track quickly and get down to business," said Barfield.
Barrichello will not get the rookie practice allowance at any track where he has already tested. At present, this only applies to Sears Point.
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