Lee Willard, Michelin tire engineer for Corvette Racing. Photo credit: Rick Dole for Michelin North America

Getting Warm

The mid-70 degree temperatures enjoyed earlier in the week have given way to mid-80 degree ambient temperatures for this afternoon’s final practice and qualifying. The Friday afternoon practice saw ambient temperatures of 75 degrees with a track temperature of 98 degrees according to Michelin race tire engineer Lee Willard with Corvette Racing.

Track temperatures are steadily rising. Saturday morning’s practice began at 72 degrees with a track temperature of 83 degrees as the sun began to warm the track under the clear, light blue sky.

Track temperatures have now crept higher with ambient approaching 85 degrees and track temperatures approaching 105 degrees, making for a slightly slicker track for qualifying. Michelin expects similar conditions for race day.