Sage Karam wins first virtual IndyCar iRacing Challenge at Watkins Glen

S Karam captured American Red Cross Grand Prix, debut event of virtualt six-race IndyCar iRacing Challenge, at Watkins Glen International on Saturday. Karam led 43 of 45 laps and beat Felix Rosenqvist by 3.6174 seconds. Will Power finished third.

IndyCar followed le of NASCAR and or racing series in throwing toger something - anything - to fill void created when COVID-19 brought sports to a halt.

IndyCar suspended start of its season 48 hours before March 15 opener in St. Petersburg, Florida, and on thursday Indianapolis 500 was postponed until August.

NASCAR h a successful launch of its iRacing series last Sunday and it was most-watched televised esports event ever with more than 900,000 viewers.

IndyCar couldn't get a television deal so its inaugural race was streamed online from virtual Watkins Glen International Speedway, venue decided by fan vote.

field included NASCAR's seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson, who me his iRacing debut last weekend in a stock car using SIM settings more suited for IndyCar or sports car.

second race will take place next Saturday (4th April) on Barber Motorsports Park permanent ro course.