Ricci save by a whisker, Norris P3. By a whisker. Oof.
Perez through with a big improvement. A lot of track evolution and low fuel.
Seems unfortunate indeed, but the new rules are aimed at making following and overtaking easier. That is still a problem on normal tracks now.
Doesn't mean squat if they are 3s a lap apart.
Don't want to skew the subject from the race, but the new rules are actually aimed to make Formula 1 and all American stylized Super Indy Car championship: 840 kg, standardized parts, homologated engine, homologated parts, very narrow independent aero development...