Salinas is fired up for 2022 NTT IndyCar Series at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

People are flocking to Monterey County for the 2022 NTT IndyCar Series at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca this weekend.

But before the big race begins, eager fans waited for their chance to meet some famous drivers during Street Fest in downtown Salinas.

Wednesday's event hosted by the Mission brand, Laguna Seca and the city of Salinas featured appearances from drivers like Simona De Silvestro, Ernie Francis Jr, and Arrow McLaren SP drivers Felix Rosenqvist and Pato O’Ward.

Local resident Ricardo Perez took home an O’Ward’s autograph on his T-shirt containing the Mexican flag. He said his visit was much anticipated among the local Latino community.

“He’s Mexican, he’s representing us and on top of that, he’s good at what he does. He’s one of the top racers right now,” Perez said.

Just yards away from the stage as De Silvestro was addressing the crowd, Jose Canchola pointed to the driver as he held his young daughter, telling her that one day she could be a race car driver.

“It’s very challenging to get women drivers out there. I can only imagine her experience,” Canchola said. “I just want her to be the best and know anything is attainable as a female.”

Fans came from across the country and even as far as Sweden to support their favorite drivers.

San Diego resident Tom Loftin traveled with his wife for their chance to take part in this week's events, and to get an autograph from Australian driver Will Power.

“Being a car guy, it was always one of the biggest events for me in my entire life because I was around all the greats,” Loftin said. “This was absolutely the destination for us to be this weekend to watch the ending of the season to see who’s going to be the series champion.”

Community officials say the vendors, prizes and excitement of the Street Fest is just a small taste of what’s to come over the weekend.

Five drivers will compete for the NTT IndyCar Series title during Season Finale at Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey.

Races are set to run from Friday to Sunday.

More information and tickets available at https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/government-links/weathertech-raceway?utm_source=Bonneville&utm_medium=SEM

This article originally appeared on Salinas Californian: Monterey County fired up for 2022 IndyCar championship