By: Ashley McCubbin

The Million Dollar Thermal Challenge was the NTT IndyCar Series attempt at creating some excitement, with drivers vying for a cash prize without consequences. It was a good attempt, and perhaps a good idea in theory. But please do not go about doing it the same way again.

The event that was supposed to be “made for TV” as advertised had many fans on X disappointed in the show, and reasonably so. When you take your time to watch something for hours, you want to be entertained. The Thermal Club may be nice for those who play with their “toys” and own a house around the joint, but it did not give off what it should for those at home.

There was no unique corners or sections of the course that stood out among others with regards to appearance or challenge. There was no camera shot that had you in total awe over the view that you seeing. It basically looked like a basic test facility dropped in the middle of a sea of palm trees. How is that supposed to be appealing? At least we have a spider at Barber Motorsports Park, or the hill to turn one at Circuit of the Americas.

Some things that may not look great could still turn into good action, but that was not the case. The amount of passes throughout the event was to a minimal, as fans watched a single file train snake through this middle-of-nowhere facility. The second 10-lap heat was dominated by Alex Palou and Marcus Armstrong, as they stretched a 14-second advantage over the rest of the field in what should have been a close battle for second.

Everybody should give Colton Herta a big pat on the back, though, as he managed to add some excitement to the final segment. All the teams were aware of fall-off and starting at the back, Andretti Global elected to have him lay back, over 40 seconds behind the leader, in trying to save for the end of the event. Then after the break, they let him loose and he was able to make his way forward for a fourth. You knew he would not have enough time with just 10 laps and the pace set by Palou, but at least he gave the fans in attendance a show.

McLaren Racing also did so a bit in the second stage, with their first three lap inner battle seeing them slice and dice together for position. It makes you wonder how the team meeting will go on Monday with Alexander Rossi the only one of the trio advancing.

The only thing worse than the on-track product was having it rubbed in the face by NBC about the richness and exclusiveness of the club, showcasing the various clubhouses and amenities. It almost felt like a commercial in parts, and a slap in the face at the average fan. IndyCar has always been wonderful due to being easily accessible by all fans – this just contradicted it.

While the fans did not get as they delivered, Palou sent a message to the rest of the IndyCar paddock he is ready to chase a third championship after dominating the event. Nolan Siegel also proved he has a future in the sport, putting together an impressive run in his heat for his series debut.