Tickets for the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg -- the season-opening race for the IZOD IndyCar Series for the third consecutive year -- on March 22-24, 2013, are on sale.

Helio Castroneves, who won for the third time on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn scenic street circuit in 2012, will return to defend his victory. Team Penske teammate Will Power, who started on the pole, also will be back to kick off the 19-race season and attempt to supplant Ryan Hunter-Reay as the series champion. Their title duel went to the final race, with the Andretti Autosport driver securing his first championship by a scant three points.

“Being the first race of the season is an honor and we expect to see more great racing in 2013 with the IZOD IndyCar Series having completed a full year with the new DW12 chassis,” said Tim Ramsberger, Vice President and General Manager of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. “With all the sights and sounds that racing has to offer, it is truly an experience that you have to be a part of in person. If you haven’t been to the Honda Grand Prix yet, we invite you to come check it out.”

The Mazda Road to Indy ladder series for North American open-wheel racing will be represented with Firestone Indy Lights and USF2000 National Championship. 

“We are excited to welcome back INDYCAR and the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg,” said Mayor Bill Foster. “The Grand Prix is one of St. Petersburg’s and Florida’s signature events. We look forward to hosting the race teams as well as the thousands of fans who come to enjoy not only the race, but also all the other activities St. Pete has to offer.”
 
In addition to world-class racing, Drifting Exhibitions will return to the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, which will take place on-track between races. Festival-goers will also be entertained with numerous interactive activities in the Bright House Networks Speed Zone and INDYCAR Fan Village, live music, exhibits and more.
 
Tickets to the event start at $20 for General Admission and $65 for Reserved Seating (tax included). For full pricing information and to buy tickets to the 2013 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, visit www.gpstpete.com or call 877-283-5385. Three-day reserved tickets purchased before December 31 will also receive a free weekend IndyCar Paddock Pass (a $65 value).