The grid for the IndyCar race at Iowa will be decided by two separate 30-lap races, each comprising half the field:
Race 1 will consist of the even-numbered positions, starting with the 10th-quickest practice time overall, and determine the even-numbered positions in the starting field from 10th down.
Race 2 will consist of the odd-numbered positions, starting with the ninth-quickest practice time overall, and determine the odd-numbered positions in the starting field from ninth down.
Race 3 will consist of drivers ranked one through eight by combined practice times. Results of Race 3 will determine the first four rows, with the winner taking the pole position.
http://www.indycar.com/en/News/2012/06-June/6-12-Practice-times-set-qual-groups
Interesting novelty or pointless gimmick?