Indy 500: Refreshers cleared, more needed from rookie Enerson
JR Hildebrand and Stefan Wilson have completed their Refresher tests for the 105th running of the Indy 500, but RC Enerson’s car suffered a mechanical failure while running his Rookie Orientation Program.

The Rookie Orientation Program (ROP) comprises Phase 1 – 10 laps at 205-210mph, Phase 2 – 15 laps at 210-215mph and Phase 3 – 15 laps above 215mph. The Refresher test comprises Phases 2 and 3.
Hildebrand, who is driving the #1 ABC Supply-sponsored fourth AJ Foyt Racing-Chevrolet, was the first to complete his course, turning a fastest lap of 218.298mph.
Wilson required a little more time in the LOHLA/Cusick Motorsports-backed sixth Andretti Autosport-Honda, as he had airflow issues with the top of his helmet, where he found the chinstrap cutting into his neck as the helmet lifted. However, Race Control allowed him to run his last seven laps of Phase 3 in the day’s season-closing two-hour session, and he completed the required number of laps without issue.
Rookie Enerson was both lucky and unlucky. Driving Top Gun Racing’s-Chevrolet-powered car, he was in Phase 2 and looking fast and smooth, but he pitted after 27 laps and the team discovered a split CV boot that had spat grease over the right-rear corner of the car. The team later indicated his day was over while they effect repairs.
While Hildebrand’s Refresher run was smooth, it has been a tough day for a couple of Foyt’s other drivers. Charlie Kimball was unable to take part in this morning’s session as the team was still converting it from road course spec to oval spec, as the #11 took part in last Saturday’s Grand Prix of Indianapolis, and then the track was closed on Sunday.
Then 45mins into the two hour session that was open to all participants, full-time Foyt driver Sebastien Bourdais suffered a fire in the right-rear corner, of the #14 ROKiT car, bringing out the caution flags.
The IndyCar veteran indicated to the Peacock livestream reporter that while the cause of the fire had not yet been verified, he was confident it wasn’t engine failure, nor would it require engine replacement.
Related video

Indy 500: Rahal leads Dixon in opening practice
Indy 500: Former winners dominate first day of practice

Latest news
Title-winning Newman/Haas Indy cars to be auctioned by Sotheby’s
Indy cars raced by Mario Andretti, Michael Andretti, Nigel Mansell, Cristiano da Matta and Sebastien Bourdais are among several artifacts of the legendary Newman/Haas Racing team to be auctioned by RM Sotheby's in October.
Ganassi will support Palou’s title fight despite contract fallout
Chip Ganassi Racing-Honda won’t waver in its support of Alex Palou’s quest for a repeat IndyCar championship, despite being locked in a legal dispute with the Spanish ace who intends to join McLaren.
Why the 2022 IndyCar title fight is Penske vs. Ganassi… yet again
There have been wins, poles and promise from others, but the 2022 NTT IndyCar Series championship battle has distilled down to Team Penske vs. Chip Ganassi Racing. A principal from each told David Malsher-Lopez what has elevated their teams beyond their rivals.
Kirkwood, Foyt land backing from Bommarito Automotive Group
The AJ Foyt Racing-Chevrolet of Kyle Kirkwood will be backed by the title sponsor of the next IndyCar round at Gateway’s World Wide Technology Raceway, the Bommarito Automotive Group.
Ranking the top 10 IndyCar drivers of 2021
In an enthralling 2021 IndyCar campaign, the series bounced back from its COVID-19 truncated year prior and series sophomore Alex Palou defeated both the established order and his fellow young guns to clinch a maiden title. It capped a remarkable season with plenty of standout performers
How Marcus Ericsson finally unlocked his potential in IndyCar
Marcus Ericsson enjoyed a breakout year in the IndyCar Series in 2021, winning twice and finishing sixth in points with Chip Ganassi Racing. How did he finally unlock the potential that was masked by five years of toil in Formula 1 with Caterham and Sauber/Alfa Romeo?
Remembering Dan Wheldon and his last and most amazing win
Saturday, Oct. 16th, marks the 10th anniversary Dan Wheldon’s death. David Malsher-Lopez pays tribute, then asks Wheldon’s race engineer from 2011, Todd Malloy, to recall that magical second victory at the Indianapolis 500.
Have Harvey and RLL formed IndyCar’s next winning match-up?
Jack Harvey’s move to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing sparked plenty of debate, but their combined strength could prove golden, says David Malsher-Lopez.
Why Kyle Kirkwood is America's new IndyCar ace-in-waiting
Kyle Kirkwood, the record-setting junior formula driver, sealed the Indy Lights championship last weekend. But despite an absurdly strong résumé and scholarship money, his next move is far from clear. By David Malsher-Lopez.
2021 IndyCar title is just the start for Ganassi's newest star
Alex Palou has captured Chip Ganassi Racing's 14th IndyCar drivers' championship, and in truly stellar manner. David Malsher-Lopez explains what made the Palou-Ganassi combo so potent so soon.
Why Grosjean's oval commitment shows he's serious about IndyCar
One of motorsport’s worst-kept secrets now out in the open, and Romain Grosjean has been confirmed as an Andretti Autosport IndyCar driver in 2022. It marks a remarkable turnaround after the abrupt end to his Formula 1 career, and is a firm indication of his commitment to challenge for the IndyCar Series title
IndyCar’s longest silly-season is still at fever pitch
The 2021 IndyCar silly season is one of the silliest of all, but it’s satisfying to see so many talented drivers in play – including Callum Ilott. David Malsher-Lopez reports.