Downtown St. Pete gears up for the Firestone Grand Prix from March 8 to 10. Over 18 days, streets will transform into a race circuit, passing landmarks like Pioneer Park, the Mahaffey Theater, and the Dali Museum before reaching the Albert Whitted Airport runway.
The track build has OFFICIALLY begun in St. Pete!
We're so excited for the 20th year of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg! It's going to be an epic race this year, and we hope you're there to experience it.
🏎️ March 8-10, 2024 pic.twitter.com/3Y0fOBbYF3
— St. Petersburg, FL (@StPeteFL) February 15, 2024
Around 300 workers will assemble the 1.8-mile track using 18,000 feet of steel-reinforced concrete blocks, weighing 20 million pounds. This intricate setup promises thrilling action against St. Pete’s waterfront.
Event organizer Kim Green expects the track to be set up in under three weeks and dismantled in just seven days. Green stresses the track’s appeal, showcasing its ability to host thrilling races against St. Pete’s scenic backdrop.
We're kicking off the track build for the 20th year of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding! 🚧
Thanks to @MayorKenWelch, @Ericsson_Marcus, and everyone who helped us get this show on the road 🏁 #FirestoneGP / #RPFunding pic.twitter.com/ahIDpO5tw1
— GPSTPETE (@GPSTPETE) February 15, 2024
Drivers, including veteran Angus Rogers and reigning champion Marcus Ericsson, laud the Grand Prix’s unique challenges. Rogers stresses precision and technical skill on the track’s tight corners and narrow streets.
Ericsson echoes the sentiment, acknowledging the race’s distinctiveness and the need for simulated practice to acclimate to its nuances. The absence of real-time training underscores the Grand Prix’s reputation as a formidable test of skill and strategy.
Special 20th-anniversary events, including a track-side 5K and a free concert, ensure an unforgettable celebration in Tampa Bay.
Defending St. Pete winner @Ericsson_Marcus has a message for @indycar fans from today’s track build ceremony 🗣️#FirestoneGP / #RPFunding pic.twitter.com/Kteof9kekN
— GPSTPETE (@GPSTPETE) February 15, 2024
