Rahal, Simpson penalized for unapproved engine changes

Graham Rahal and Kyffin Simpson will both carry nine-place grid penalties into this weekend’s NTT IndyCar Series doubleheader at Iowa Speedway for unapproved engine changes following the July 7 race at Mid-Ohio. The No. 15 Rahal Letterman Lanigan …

Graham Rahal and Kyffin Simpson will both carry nine-place grid penalties into this weekend’s NTT IndyCar Series doubleheader at Iowa Speedway for unapproved engine changes following the July 7 race at Mid-Ohio.

The No. 15 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Honda and No. 4 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda were both found to be in violation of Rule 16.1.2.3.2., which states that ‘A fifth (5th) Engine is eligible to earn Engine Manufacturer points if a Full Season Entrant has completed the Full Season Entrant Engine Mileage with its first four (4) Engines. Otherwise, a fifth (5th) or more Engine does not earn Engine Manufacturer points and will be considered an Unapproved Engine change-out.’

According to Rule 16.1.6.1.2., the penalty for such infractions is six grid places on road and street courses, and nine places on ovals.

Both entries will serve their penalties in the first race of the weekend on Saturday evening.