Qualifying rules tweaked

Previously, each driver would have just one flying lap in which to set their grid time at all the 'other' oval courses.

But, as of this season, the Indy 500's previously unique system of four flying laps, with the grid spot then decided on the average lap time, will be adopted for all tracks.

Road courses though, will continue to use their current system of a free-for-all for 20 minutes before a 'fast-six' section at the end.

IndyCar competitions president Brian Barnhart said: "Qualifying is one of the most nerve-wracking experiences for an IndyCar Series driver.

"At Indianapolis, that has meant ten miles of error-free driving at 225-plus miles per hour. We're going to take that kind of intensity and drama to every other oval on our schedule."

British driver Dan Wheldon, the 2006 series champion, said he was delighted with the rule change.

"I think it's good for the series and good for the fans," Wheldon said. "They get used to the way we qualify for the Indianapolis 500, so I'm excited about it. You need to make sure that every lap counts."