The ARCA Menards Series is set to ignite the track at Indianapolis Raceway Park for the highly anticipated Circle City 200. This event marks the 10th race of the ARCA Menards season and the 6th race of the ARCA Menards East season, promising an exciting blend of seasoned drivers and rising stars.

Coming off a dominant performance at Berlin Raceway, William Sawalich aims to carry his momentum into Indianapolis. Sawalich’s pole-to-checkered flag victory at Berlin showcased his skill and determination, setting the stage for what could be another strong showing.

However, all eyes are on the current points leader, Andres Perez, who holds a commanding 40-point lead over Greg Van Alst in the standings. Perez’s consistency throughout the season has been impressive, and he’ll be looking to extend his advantage at IRP.

The Circle City 200 boasts an impressive entry list of 31 cars, the highest number since IRP’s return to the schedule. Notable entries include Brayton Laster driving for Wayne Peterson, Jayson Alexander and Presley Sorah with Fast Track Racing, Dale Shearer in his own car, and Isaac Johnson representing Van Alst Motorsports.

The diverse field also features familiar names like Marco Andretti, Kris Wright, and Toni Breidinger, alongside up-and-coming talents such as Gio Ruggiero and Connor Zilisch. The mix of experienced drivers and young guns promises intense battles throughout the pack.

Speaking of Zilisch, he enters the race as a top contender. Currently leading the East Series points, Zilisch has demonstrated consistent speed and racecraft throughout the season. Many observers predict he’ll be a force to reckon with at the front of the field all day.

The Circle City 200 represents more than just another race on the calendar. It’s a crucial juncture for drivers looking to make their mark in the series and for those battling for championship positions. With the increased entry list, fans can expect tight racing and potentially surprising outcomes.

The green flag drops at 5:30 PM EST on Friday, July 19th, with live coverage available on Fox Sports 1. As the engines roar to life at Indianapolis Raceway Park, the ARCA Menards Series is poised to deliver another thrilling chapter in its 2024 season.

Image: Susan Wong/NASCAR