The Battle for Laguna Seca at the Grand Prix of Monterey
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES arrives at the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey. This track is known for its dramatic elevation changes, the legendary “Corkscrew” turn, and a reputation for thrilling, unpredictable racing.
This eighth round of the 2024 season promises another close fight for the checkered flag, with several drivers boasting strong credentials and track story-lines to consider when placing your bets. There has been a lot of movement with the odds as the week has gone on. So lets get down to business.
Track Dynamics and Recent History
The 2.258-mile road course underwent a complete repaving in 2023, and the fresh asphalt combined with fierce competition has led to some wild finishes in recent years. The 2023 race, for example, was marred by multiple cautions and on-track incidents, with Scott Dixon emerging victorious after a strategic battle. This year, the combination of aggressive driving styles and the unforgiving nature of Laguna Seca could lead to another action-packed race, potentially benefiting drivers who excel at managing chaos and capitalizing on restarts.
Odds to Win the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey
Favorites Seeking Redemption and Continued Momentum
- Alex Palou (#10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda): The reigning champion (+133 Odds) boasts an enviable record at Laguna Seca, with a win in 2022 and a podium finish in 2023. His consistency throughout the 2024 season, including a dominant victory at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, makes him the clear favorite. Look for Palou to be a force throughout the race, potentially leading a significant number of laps.
- Scott McLaughlin (#3 Good Ranchers Team Penske Chevrolet): McLaughlin (+1200) has been on a tear lately, capturing the checkered flag at Barber Motorsports Park and scoring a podium finish at Road America. He’s shown a particular talent for excelling on natural road courses, and his past success at Laguna Seca, including two podium finishes, makes him a serious threat. McLaughlin offers a good value bet for those seeking a high return.
- Scott Dixon (#9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda): The six-time champion (+1400) can never be discounted. While his recent Laguna Seca results haven’t been as dominant as Palou’s, Dixon’s experience and racecraft are invaluable assets. His victory in the chaotic 2023 race exemplifies his ability to adapt and overcome adversity. Expect Dixon to be in the thick of the fight.
Potential Upsets and Drivers to Watch
- Felix Rosenqvist (#7 Arrow McLaren SP Chevrolet): Don’t be surprised if Rosenqvist throws a wrench into the favorites’ plans. He secured the pole position here in 2023 and has a history of strong performances at Laguna Seca. His aggressive driving style could be a factor, and his odds are a steal at a juicy +1325.
- Colton Herta (#26 Andretti Autosport Honda): While Laguna Seca hasn’t necessarily been Herta’s strongest track, his raw talent and daring overtaking maneuvers are undeniable. He might be due for a breakthrough win, and the high-speed nature of the track could suit his aggressive style perfectly. You would have had to consider Herta as a potential dark horse at his odds earlier in the week at +1200 but now he is one of the favorites with odds around +350.
Beyond the Drivers: Factors to Consider When Placing Your Bets
- Weather: Monterey’s unpredictable climate can be a game-changer. Pay close attention to the latest forecasts, as rain could significantly impact the race and favor drivers with strong wet-weather skills.
- Restarts: The combination of the new surface and intense competition has led to several incidents and restarts in recent Monterey races. Drivers who excel at capitalizing on these restarts, like Scott Dixon and Alex Palou, could find themselves with an advantage.
- Manufacturer Battle: Honda has dominated Laguna Seca since the series’ return in 2019. However, Chevrolet drivers like McLaughlin and Will Power have shown strong pace on natural road courses this season. Consider this ongoing manufacturer battle when making your bets.
Prop Bets to Spice Up Your Viewing Experience
In addition to outright race winner wagers, prop bets offer a fun way to add another layer of excitement to your viewing experience. Here are a few options to consider for the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey:
- Pole Position: While Palou and Dixon are strong contenders for the top starting spot, don’t rule out Rosenqvist’s past qualifying success here.
- Most Laps Led: Palou and McLaughlin are likely candidates to spend a significant portion of the race at the front of the pack. However, don’t rule out Dixon or a surprise contender capitalizing on pit strategy.
- Top 3 Finish: Instead of picking a single winner, consider a combination bet where your favorite driver lands on the podium alongside other strong contenders like Dixon, McLaughlin, or Rosenqvist.
Remember: Betting on IndyCar involves inherent risk. Always wager responsibly and within your budget. With a deep field of talented drivers, unpredictable weather conditions, and a challenging track, the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey looks to be some quality open-wheel racing on Saturday evening.
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