Focusing on Race Performance
Despite a difficult qualifying session that landed him in the back of the pack for the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500, Josef Newgarden remains calm. While his Team Penske colleagues David Malukas and Scott McLaughlin secured third and ninth positions respectively, Newgarden is keeping his composure regarding his own car's potential.
Reflecting on the qualifying results, the 35-year-old driver expressed that while the setback is frustrating, his focus has already shifted to race day. «That's what she had on Sunday. It's a different story going into the race now. I feel really good about where we're at,» Newgarden stated. He acknowledged that the primary disappointment lies in missing out on 12 championship points, rather than any lack of confidence in his vehicle's race-day pace.
Drawing on Experience and History
Newgarden, a two-time winner of the event, finds comfort in his past performance and extensive experience. He previously demonstrated his ability to charge through the field in 2023, where he moved from 32nd to 10th place within the first 60 laps before a mechanical failure sidelined him. This year marks his 15th start in the iconic race, placing him in a position to potentially join an elite group of three-time winners, including legendary names such as Dario Franchitti and Bobby Unser.
Navigating the Field
A significant advantage for a veteran like Newgarden is the familiarity with his competitors. Starting near the 2014 Indy 500 champion Ryan Hunter-Reay, Newgarden noted the importance of racing against drivers who can be trusted on the track.
«The nice thing is you have to have a good kind of book in place. You kind of compile your notes on everybody in the field, and you sort of get a couple passes by hopefully most cars during practice,» Newgarden explained. Regarding the late-stage intensity of the race, he added: «Certainly when it comes down to the end, it's every man for himself. We're all trying to win this race. It would be fun if it's Ryan and me and we can have a shootout, but we're both going to be going for it.»