Richmond replaces Pocono on 2020 IndyCar calendar

IndyCar has released its 2020 calendar with Richmond Raceway replacing Pocono Raceway.

The return of the 0.75mi oval in place of the 2.5mi tri-oval is the key change, although a handful of events have swapped positions and/or changed dates.

All 17 races, including the double-header in Detroit, take place in North America despite talks last year and earlier this year about the possible addition of flyaway events such as Motegi or the Gold Coast.

Richmond will, however, host IndyCar for the first time since 2009.

“We are pleased to return to the Mid-Atlantic region, one we know to be full of IndyCar fans,” said IndyCar CEO Mark Miles.

“We’re also excited to return to historic Richmond Raceway, which was recently reimagined with a $30 million redevelopment project that modernised the infield for a better fan experience.”

The now customary St Petersburg season-opener takes place on March 15 before races at Barber Motorsports Park and Long Beach.

The Circuit of the Americas moves back to Race 4 to avoid a clash with the 12 Hours of Sebring, followed by the Indianapolis road course race and the flagship Indianapolis 500.

Detroit, Texas Motor Speedway, and Road America all hold effectively unchanged dates, while Richmond is fitted in with a two-day event ending on June 27.

Toronto and Iowa hold mid-July slots again, ahead of a gap due to host broadcaster NBC’s Olympic Games commitments.

Mid-Ohio moves to Pocono’s old date with a race on August 16, followed by Gateway, Portland, and Laguna Seca.

As is the case in 2019, the calendar comprises seven road courses, five street circuits, and five ovals.

There is just one round remaining in the current season, at Laguna Seca on September 20-22 (local time).

IndyCar Series 2020 calendar