Codemasters predicts winner of Indy 500

Codemasters has today predicted that Tony Kanaan, currently placed second in the '04 IndyCar Series standings, will win this weekend's Indianapolis 500. Codemasters arrived at its prediction after running the race on IndyCar Series 2005, which is currently scheduled for an Xbox release on June 22.

"For IRL drivers, winning the Indy 500 is the ultimate dream," said Tom Bass, senior product manager at Codemasters. "We've re-created the race so accurately that Tony Kanaan could very well be celebrating two victories in one week."

"IndyCar Series 2005 allows fans to get a taste of IndyCar Series action firsthand," added Nicole Polsky, director of licensing for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "The game creates such a realistic experience that many of the IRL drivers use it to keep sharp when they are unable to get on the track."

In the simulated race, Kanaan passed Scott Dixon around the outside of the final turn to take the checkered flag. No doubt, we'll receive a new press release next week if that's what transpires on Sunday.