Ex Formula One driver Marcus Ericsson has had a break-out season this year winning two races. His transition to the NTT IndyCar Series has taken longer than he would have liked but he’s certainly enjoying the journey this year. Marcus took time in the “media bullpen” at the 2021 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach to discuss that transition, the physical differences between F1 and Indy cars along with his preparation away from the track. With Formula One drivers having a reputation of being aloof and cold, Marcus was the exact opposite with a warm and humble disposition.
By Larry Mason Copyright © 2021 Larry Mason Marcus Ericsson waves to the crowd before the start of the 2021 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Marcus Ericsson waves to the crowd before the start of the 2021 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Marcus Ericsson rockets down Shoreline Drive just past the start/finish line on his way to a terminal velocity of nearly 180mph! Marcus Ericsson rockets down Shoreline Drive just past the start/finish line on his way to a terminal velocity of nearly 180mph! Marcus Ericsson is shown here holding off two Indy 500 champions – Alex Rossi and Ryan Hunter Reay. Unfortunately, a few laps later Rossi would dive to the inside of Ericsson in Turn 1. Ericsson tried to hold the outside line and skated in the marbles and into the tire barrier. Marcus Ericsson is shown here holding off two Indy 500 champions – Alex Rossi and Ryan Hunter Reay. Unfortunately, a few laps later Rossi would dive to the inside of Ericsson in Turn 1. Ericsson tried to hold the outside line and skated in the marbles and into the tire barrier. It wasn’t a super hard hit, but the foray into the tire barriers broke the front wing and ended Ericsson’s race. It wasn’t a super hard hit, but the foray into the tire barriers broke the front wing and ended Ericsson’s race. Interview and photos by Larry Mason