Formula One veteran Rubens Barrichello will get some of the benefits of other first-year IndyCar drivers.
IndyCar said Monday that Barrichello will receive an extra set of tires and be allowed to practice in Group 1 of the first session along with other rookie drivers at road/street courses where he hasn't tested. He will get the extra tires and track time at all ovals.
The Brazilian driver will have to complete the Rookie Orientation Program like all drivers competing in the Indianapolis 500 for the first time.
Barrichello is a 19-year veteran of Formula One, who won 11 races. He has argued that he is "definitely a rookie" because he's unfamiliar with most tracks. He won't be eligible for rookie of the year honors.
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