ARLINGTON, TX — There was a red flag on the track before IndyCar’s second practice of the day for the Grand Prix of Arlington even began.
As the first group of drivers exited pit lane, the red flag came out due to a catering crew being on the track. The practice was halted before any drivers got up to speed, and no one was harmed.
“Okay everybody, this was a serious breach of security to have people crossing the track while we were in session,” IndyCar race control was heard saying on radio. “So we’re going to send safety around the course to check everything we have here. That’s how serious this was. Once we have a secure course that we’re comfortable with, we’ll give you a count in.”
The first Grand Prix of Arlington is taking place this weekend, with the race set for 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. Street races tend to lead to unforeseen issues in their first year, such as a catering crew ending up on the track between practice sessions. The red flag remained out for several minutes after the catering crew exited the track, as race control made sure the track was clear and there were no available entries.
Arlington’s 2.73-mile circuit loops around the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium and Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Field. It is the longest of IndyCar’s six street circuits in 2025, meaning there’s more track for security and safety crews to ensure is cleared before a green flag.
Zion Brown is IndyStar’s motorsports reporter. Follow him at @z10nbr0wn. Get IndyStar’s motor sports coverage sent directly to your inbox with our Motor Sports newsletter. Subscribe to theYouTube channel IndyStar TV: IndyCar for a behind-the-scenes look at IndyCar and expert analysis.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: How a catering crew caused a red flag at IndyCar practice in Arlington
Reporting by Zion Brown, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
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