“I’m not the one who writes the rules!” Helio Castroneves breaks silence on controversies over OEP rule
IndyCar legend Helio Castroneves has shared his feelings about the controversies around the OEP rules he is set to use at Daytona.
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Helio Castroneves (Via IndyStar)
Going into the 2025 NASCAR Cup season, the sanctioning body made some significant changes to the rule book. One of those changes was the Open Exemption Provisional, a new policy that allows elite racers from other motorsports series a slot in the starting line-up if they failed to qualify, though they will be out of earning anything from the races’ prize pool.
Four times Indy 500 champion Helio Castroneves is set to become the first racer to use the provisional, as he is set make Cup debut at Daytona 500 debut. But many in the racing community isn’t happy about the rule and shared his feelings about it. He pointed out that he feels blessed to have the opportunity and is determined to do justice for the people that supports him.
I’m not the one who writes the rules, I’m the one very blessed and honored to be in this position to go to an incredible race. Hopefully, I’m going to do justice not only for the people that are fans of all kinds of races—not just about Indy cars or prototypes or NASCAR… If I can do it the way I want to do it, we won’t have to use the rule.
Helio Castroneves said via Autoweek.
Further talking about the point, Castroneves pointed out that he is very happy about having the guaranteed seat, but will do everything he could to make sure he doesn’t have to use it. But at the same time, he is open to the idea of using it.
I’ve always went in thinking that I’m going to try and race my way in and hope for the best. Obviously, I was very happy to hear about the recent scenario of the (provisional option), and I’m going to try not to use it. However, if I have to use it, I’ll take it.
Helio Castroneves added.
Helio Castroneves is nervous about the NASCAR debut
Whie taking about the pressure on his shoulders going into the race, Helio Castroneves admitted that he is really nervous as it’s a challenge he has never faced before in his racing career. He also highlighted how tough the transformation from NASCAR to IndyCar is.
I don’t think I can put into words how nervous I am. It’s something completely different. You know how hard it is for someone driving a car from NASCAR going to IndyCar or IndyCar going to NASCAR. Very few people were able to do that, especially with the limited time you have for practice.
Helio Castroneves said.
The comments from Helio Castroneves shows he is looking forward for the upcoming challenge and understand it’s going to be different from everything he has done over the years as a racer. It would be interesting to see how well the IndyCar legend will perform in the main event.
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Justin P Joy
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