Josef Newgarden refusing to read too much into rapid final practice ahead of Indy 500
Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Josef Newgarden says he will not read too much into his pace from final Indianapolis 500 practice despite topping the session ahead of race day. The Team Penske driver recorded the fastest speed during final practice at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, further strengthening his status as one of the leading contenders for victory. Newgarden is looking to get back to winning ways at the Indy 500 after failing to earn a third consecutive win last year, following two consecutive wins in 2023 and 2024.
Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Josef Newgarden staying grounded despite rapid final practice pace Speaking after the session, Josef Newgarden played down the significance of finishing fastest before race day. The two-time Indianapolis 500 winner admitted the car felt strong during the session but stressed that conditions during the race itself could still change significantly. “I don’t know if it means anything, honestly.
The car feels really good. We’ve got a solid package. ” Final practice traditionally serves as the final opportunity for teams to evaluate race pace, traffic conditions and long run balance before Sunday’s Indianapolis 500.
Penske drivers again appeared highly competitive throughout the session, reinforcing expectations that the team could once again play a major role at the front of the field. Newgarden chasing unprecedented third straight Indy 500 victory Despite topping final practice, Newgarden continues entering race weekend under enormous pressure because no driver has ever won three consecutive Indianapolis 500s. His recent dominance at Indianapolis has already established him among the strongest oval racers of the modern IndyCar era.
Newgarden has nevertheless spent much of Indianapolis 500 week attempting to downplay the growing attention surrounding his historic opportunity. The competitiveness displayed throughout final practice also highlighted how difficult the race itself could become, with several major contenders showing strong pace before race day. For Newgarden, however, the focus now shifts entirely towards execution across 500 miles rather than practice session results.