Indy 500 Open Test: Highlights from the Final Practice Session
On May 24, 2025, the excitement surrounding the Indianapolis 500 intensified as drivers took to the 2.5-mile oval for the final practice session before the start of the GMR Grand Prix. The reigning IndyCar champion, Alex Palou, showcased his speed by clocking an impressive 223.993 mph during his third lap, a benchmark that remained unbeaten throughout the session.
The day’s events marked the conclusion of on-track preparations ahead of the highly anticipated month of May, which culminates in the prestigious Indy 500. Palou’s performance underlines his position as a formidable contender, not only for the GMR Grand Prix but also for the upcoming 109th running of the Indianapolis 500.
Top Performers of the Day
Kyle Kirkwood, fresh off his victory at Long Beach, was among the first drivers to hit the track. He briefly held a spot among the leaders before ultimately finishing the day in third place. Veteran driver Helio Castroneves from Meyer Shank Racing also made headlines, leading the session early on with a speed of 223.211 mph before being surpassed by Palou and later by Felix Rosenqvist.
Rosenqvist, driving for Meyer Shank Racing, made a significant impact during his 112 laps around the oval. His top speed of 223.366 mph on his 106th lap propelled him to second place in the session, highlighting the synergy between him and the team’s new technical partnership with Chip Ganassi Racing. This collaboration was further reflected in the strong performances of teammates Kyffin Simpson and Marcus Armstrong, both of whom finished in the top 12.
Conor Daly also had a standout session, recording the fourth-fastest time, while Josef Newgarden rounded out the top five. The top seven was completed by Castroneves and Scott Dixon, with Pato O’Ward, Graham Rahal, and Will Power making up the remainder of the top ten.
Rahal’s performance was particularly notable as he dramatically improved his standing in the final moments of the session, jumping from 31st to 9th place on his last lap. Meanwhile, rookie Jacob Abel delivered a commendable performance, finishing as the top rookie of the day in 21st place with Dale Coyne Racing.
Challenges Faced by Some Drivers
The session was not without its challenges. Takuma Sato and Kyle Larson were unable to participate in the afternoon practice due to accidents earlier in the day. Additionally, Rinus VeeKay and Abel encountered mechanical issues, causing them to stall on the track. This created tense moments for drivers behind them, including O’Ward and Castroneves, who had to react quickly to avoid incidents.
Throughout the session, a total of 563 laps were completed, with Scott McLaughlin and Rosenqvist being the most active drivers, each completing 112 laps. Their consistent performance and high lap counts demonstrate their readiness as they gear up for the month of May.
Looking Ahead to the GMR Grand Prix
As the focus shifts to the GMR Grand Prix, anticipation builds for the upcoming race on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course. This event will be the final test before the drivers turn their attention to the main event—the Indianapolis 500. With the practice session revealing the competitive nature of the field, fans can expect an exhilarating month filled with racing action.
The GMR Grand Prix is set to provide a unique challenge for the drivers, blending the technical aspects of the road course with the high-speed demands of the oval. Teams will need to adapt their strategies quickly as they prepare for different racing conditions, making the upcoming race a critical opportunity for drivers to showcase their skills and gain valuable points in the championship standings.
Key Takeaways from the Practice Session
This final practice session has provided insights into the strengths and weaknesses of various teams and drivers. The impressive lap times set by Palou, Rosenqvist, and others indicate that the competition will be fierce in the weeks to come. With the combination of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the field for the Indy 500 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
The Indianapolis 500 is not only a race; it’s a celebration of motorsport, attracting fans from around the world. The atmosphere at the speedway during this time of year is electric, and the drivers understand the significance of performing well. As they prepare for the upcoming races, each team will be looking to capitalize on their strengths while addressing any challenges that arose during the practice sessions.
With the stage set and the drivers ready to compete, the excitement surrounding the GMR Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500 is palpable. Fans can look forward to thrilling races, dramatic moments, and the crowning of champions in one of the most iconic events in motorsport history.
In conclusion, the final practice session for the Indy 500 has set the tone for an exciting month ahead. With top performances from established stars and rising talents, the anticipation for the GMR Grand Prix and the subsequent Indianapolis 500 continues to grow. Each lap taken during this session brings the drivers one step closer to achieving their ultimate goal—victory at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
