INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Danica Patrick is praying the Indianapolis Motor Speedway can be dried in time to make another qualifying attempt for the Indianapolis 500.
A technical problem with the car forced IndyCar’s most famous driver to give up her spot in line shortly after noon. Two drivers then qualified before heavy rains swept through the area.
More than two hours later, qualifying resumed, but Patrick was sent to the back of the line. By the time her turn came, it was raining again and the track was closed as Patrick sat dumbfounded in her car for 13 minutes before taking a golf cart back to her garage.
If the track does not dry, Patrick will be out of the 33-car field for the May 29 race.
The nine remaining spots already have been filled.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ American Graham Rahal and Brazilian Ana Beatriz have tentatively qualified for the Indianapolis 500.
Beatriz made the first run Sunday, completing her four laps with an average of 223.979 mph. That’s the slowest speed in the field. She currently holds the No. 26 starting spot.
Rahal posted an average speed of 224.380, completing the run as rain fell on the south end of the 2.5-mile oval. He’s tentatively in the No. 25 starting spot.
Immediately after Rahal finished, the track was closed because of lightning and heavy rain. Qualifying is scheduled to go until 6 p.m. Sunday. The race will be held May 29.
Danica Patrick, Marco Andretti and Ryan Briscoe are expected to make qualifying attempts when the track dries.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.