An unusual incident occurred during an IndyCar Series race in Alabama when a mannequin fell onto the racetrack, leading to bewildering moments for drivers and broadcast commentators.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - An IndyCar Series race at Barber Motorsports Park took an unexpected turn on Sunday when a mannequin plummeted onto the road course, leaving drivers and spectators perplexed.
As race leader Álex Palou sped around Lap 52, the NBC Sports broadcast team spotted the unusual object near the racetrack. The commentators revealed that the mannequin, affectionately named Georgina, was part of an art installation within the park.
Georgina's ill-timed descent from a pedestrian overhang resulted in one driver inadvertently running over its wrist. "Put this into the list of things you don't see at a racetrack," remarked one broadcaster.
Barber Motorsports Park is renowned for its distinctive artwork, with sculptures dotting the track. Aside from the fallen mannequin, the road course featured an intriguing spider sculpture, adding to the unusual ambiance.
Despite the mannequin incident, the race continued without an immediate caution, allowing Scott McLaughlin to secure his second consecutive victory at Barber Motorsports Park. The Team Penske driver had faced scrutiny earlier in the week after IndyCar penalized him for manipulating the push-to-pass system.
"It was a little emotional for sure," McLaughlin admitted. "It's just nice. It was just a nice cap after obviously it was a pretty tough week."
Will Power crossed the finish line in second place, followed by Linus Lundqvist, Felix Rosenqvist, and Palou. Josef Newgarden, who had his season-opening victory rescinded, finished in a disappointing 16th position.
"We just had to keep rolling," McLaughlin stated. "We know our job. We know what we need to do. I'm just super proud of our execution."
The Associated Press contributed to this report, providing additional insights into the unusual incident.
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