“I think last year joining IndyCar … it was definitely a season I’ll remember for a long time,” said Grosjean. “I came in IndyCar not knowing if I was going to like the championship, if I was going to like the car, the tracks, the American life.”
His presence helped IndyCar’s growth in France, much like Palou is boosting interest in Spain and Pato O’Ward is growing into a star in his native Mexico.
Grosjean said getting IndyCar races televised around the world would be a huge help for the series, but he also knows that a behind-the-scenes docuseries like Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” can spur tremendous growth.
“I know France last year did 100% (more) on viewing, so they doubled what they were doing. Still not Formula 1, but it’s getting there,” Grosjean said. “But I think there’s still a perception … what is IndyCar? Is it like the GT cars running on ovals? Oh, no, that’s NASCAR. For people that are not a hardcore fan, they still get it a little bit wrong. ”
Still, two of IndyCar’s bright, young stars have been eyeing moves elsewhere.
O’Ward, who turns 23 in May, tested the McLaren F1 car in December and the team could use him this season during practices at select races. Herta, who turns 22 in March, would have moved to F1 with Andretti had Michael Andretti been successful in purchasing a team last year.
