Pocono return celebrates IndyCar history

IndyCar is celebrating its history and tradition by returning to Pocono Raceway next season after a 23-year absence.

Pocono CEO Brandon Igdalsky and IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard both touched on the track's steeped history in open-wheel racing on Monday as they welcomed the series back to the Pennsylvania track.

Mario Andretti said Pocono is an important venue for IndyCar fans in the Northeast, and wished he was young enough to compete in the July 7 race.

Pocono will be part of the "Triple Crown'' challenge that was abandoned years ago. A $1 million bonus will be awarded to a driver who wins the Indianapolis 500, Pocono's 400-miler and the 2013 season finale at Fontana.

Pocono's three corners were designed in 1965 to model corners at three other IndyCar tracks.