The NTT IndyCar Series returns to The Thermal Club March 21–23, and this time, points are on the line. That’s a big deal for race fans and a step up from last year’s event, which doled out hefty cash prizes but zero points, making no impact on championship standings. (Not that it mattered — Álex Palou, who won the made-for-TV $1 Million Challenge, went on to dominate the 2024 season.)
The IndyCar-Thermal courtship kicked off in early 2023, when the private residential club — built around a racetrack instead of the usual golf course — hosted teams for preseason testing. It was a dream come true for club owner Tim Rogers, who expressed his desire to do more, telling Palm Springs Life, “It’s really up to Indy. We have the facility — we could certainly host a race.”
That manifested in the $1 Million Challenge. And while they were here, drivers made the most of their time in the Coachella Valley, carving out time away from the track to decompress on the golf course and pickleball courts.
This month’s inaugural Thermal Grand Prix, sponsored by Agua Caliente Casinos, will be held on the same circuit —
the 3.067-mile Twin Palms layout. Spectators can expect an exclusive experience that lives up to the private club’s reputation (and the lofty ticket prices): premium viewing areas, live entertainment, and foodie favorites like TKB Bakery & Deli and Outside the Masa. There’s not a bad seat in the house.
Three-day passes, available at general admission and VIP levels, get you in to watch practice sessions, qualifying, and Sunday’s race.
