Honda 200 Mid-Ohio GP

The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio, debuting in 1980, became an instant hit in the IndyCar calendar. Johnny Rutherford secured the inaugural race victory for Chaparral Cars, setting the stage for years of thrilling competition. After a brief hiatus in 1981-1982, racing resumed in 1983 with Teo Fabi clinching his second IndyCar win.

In subsequent years, the race witnessed significant moments, including Mario Andretti’s dominant performance in scorching heat during the 1984 race, leading 76 of 84 laps. Hometown hero Bobby Rahal triumphed in 1985, showcasing his prowess by leading an astonishing 83 of 84 laps. Rahal would repeat his success in 1986 and narrowly missed another victory in 1987. Colombian driver Roberto Guerrero claimed his sole IndyCar career win by surpassing Rahal for the lead and securing the victory.

Course modifications were implemented at Mid-Ohio in 1990, resulting in a revised layout that included the elimination of turns two and three. The updated design shortened the circuit by 0.15 miles, making the hairpin turn (formerly turn four) the new turn two. In the first race with this configuration in 1991, Michael Andretti, the 1991 champion, showcased his skill by overtaking his father Mario with 19 laps remaining.

The race date shifted to mid-August in 1994, with Al Unser Jr. claiming back-to-back victories following the schedule change. The 1990s saw a unique trend of races won two at a time, with drivers like Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi, Unser Jr., and Alex Zanardi achieving consecutive victories. Scott Dixon, a six-time champion, later replicated this feat in 2011 and 2012.

Previously occurring alongside the Grand Prix of Cleveland, the Mid-Ohio race faced proximity challenges, leading to changes in the race calendar. The race was revived in 2007 for the Indy Racing League, with Scott Dixon clinching victory in the first race back at the track. Chip Ganassi Racing drivers, including Dixon, Dario Franchitti, and Charlie Kimball, dominated the Mid-Ohio races after its return.

In 2015, Graham Rahal secured a memorable win at the Honda Indy 200, joining his father Bobby Rahal as the second father-son duo to triumph in IndyCar races at the track, following in the footsteps of Michael and Mario Andretti.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the race format was modified to a doubleheader in early September. Starting in 2021, the race date shifted to the first weekend of July, adding a new level of excitement to the event. Scott Dixon holds the record for the most wins at Mid-Ohio, boasting an impressive tally of six victories.

Stay informed with the latest Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio odds, track the IndyCar standings, and keep up with the dynamic indycar race schedule as this iconic event continues to captivate motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.