2024 Indianapolis 500: Josef Newgarden Sets the Pace During Practice Sessions
On May 9, 2024, the sun finally broke through the clouds in Indianapolis, signaling the start of a productive day of practice for the upcoming Indianapolis 500. After two days of rain and interruptions, the drivers were eager to take to the track. Leading the charge was Josef Newgarden from Team Penske, who clocked an impressive speed of 226.632 mph, making it clear that he is a contender for the crown.
Newgarden didn’t just dominate in overall speed; he also excelled in qualifying simulations, achieving the fastest lap without the benefit of a draft at 222.555 mph. This lap, completed in the late afternoon under intense heat and aided by favorable tailwinds on the backstretch, showcased Newgarden’s skill and the performance of his car. He expressed satisfaction with the day’s outcomes, stating, “It was a productive day for us. There’s still work to do with the qualifying package, but I’m excited.”
Following closely behind Newgarden was Scott Dixon from Chip Ganassi Racing, who managed to achieve a speed of 225.457 mph. Conor Daly, driving for Juncos Hollinger Racing, showed great form with a speed of 224.893 mph, while Pato O’Ward, representing Arrow McLaren, posted 224.467 mph. Rounding out the top five was Ryan Hunter-Reay from Dreyer & Reinbold/Cusick Motorsports, who recorded 223.983 mph.
O’Ward shared insights into the challenges of balancing a race car’s performance for both traffic and qualifying laps, saying, “They are two completely different animals. A good car in traffic doesn’t necessarily mean a good car for a qualifying lap, and vice versa. The car changes quite a bit with increased turbo pressure.” He noted that he felt reasonably satisfied with his performance during the Open Test and looked forward to the boost during qualifying.
Alex Palou, who secured the sixth fastest speed at 223.456 mph, took a more cautious approach, focusing on fewer laps and a rhythm test rather than outright speed. Colton Herta also made headlines early in the session by clocking 221.588 mph as the fastest driver without a draft, although he later fell behind.
The day also marked the completion of the refresher test for Tony Kanaan, who drove the #17 car for HendrickCars.com/Arrow McLaren before handing it over to Kyle Larson just before 1 p.m. Larson had limited laps as he adjusted to the demanding nature of “Double Duty” during the event.
The only incident of the day involved Christian Rasmussen from Ed Carpenter Racing, who spun out at the exit of Turn 2 around 4:13 p.m. Fortunately, the damage was minimal, allowing him to wrap up his day early.
As temperatures remained high during the "Happy Hour," several drivers, including David Malukas, Kyle Kirkwood, Will Power, and Newgarden, engaged in more aggressive qualifying simulations, utilizing hybrid systems and strategic energy regeneration at specific points on the track.
With all 34 entered cars having posted times, attention now shifts to the upcoming Fast Friday, when drivers will gain extra boost pressure in preparation for the crucial qualifying weekend. It’s a pivotal moment that will reveal who truly has the speed to contend for the pole position.
If Newgarden’s performance serves as a warning to his competitors, they are undoubtedly taking note as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Practice Day Insights
The fourth practice session for the 109th Indianapolis 500 took place on May 15, 2025, at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which spans 2.5 miles. This session is critical for teams as it allows them to fine-tune their setups and gauge their performance ahead of the race.
Practice Session Details:
- Session Duration: Practice 4
- Total Laps Completed: 2,213
- Top Performers:
- 1st: Josef Newgarden (Chevy/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:39.712, 226.632 mph
- 2nd: Scott Dixon (Honda/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:39.919, 225.457 mph (+0.207)
- 3rd: Conor Daly (Chevy/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:40.019, 224.893 mph (+0.307)
- 4th: Pato O’Ward (Chevy/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:40.095, 224.467 mph (+0.383)
- 5th: Ryan Hunter-Reay (Chevy/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:40.181, 223.983 mph (+0.469)
- 6th: Alex Palou (Honda/Dallara/Firestone) – 00:40.276, 223.456 mph (+0.564)
The top five drivers demonstrated their speed and skill, setting the stage for an exciting qualifying weekend. Each team continues to analyze data to optimize their cars for various conditions they may encounter during the race.
The emphasis during these practice sessions is on gathering as much information as possible. Teams are looking for the right balance between speed and stability, especially when it comes to handling the turbulent air created by other cars. This is crucial for both qualifying and race day, where the ability to draft off competitors can significantly impact lap times.
As the practice sessions progress, teams will experiment with various setups, tire compounds, and fuel loads to determine the best configurations. This is where the experience of the drivers and their teams comes into play, as they must make quick decisions based on real-time data and track conditions.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead to the upcoming practice and qualifying sessions, teams will be fine-tuning their strategies. Drivers are acutely aware of the stakes, and every lap counts in their quest for the coveted pole position. The atmosphere at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway becomes increasingly electric as the weekend approaches, with fans eager to see their favorite drivers in action.
The Indianapolis 500 is not just a race; it’s an event steeped in history and tradition. Each year, drivers from around the world come to compete in what is often referred to as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." As preparations continue, the anticipation builds, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable race.
In the days leading up to the event, teams will analyze data from practice sessions to make informed decisions about their strategies. The interplay between speed, aerodynamics, and tire management will be critical, especially as the weather can often play a significant role in race dynamics.
As Fast Friday approaches, everyone in the paddock is aware that the competition will be fierce. Drivers will push their limits, and teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for speed. The excitement is palpable, and fans are ready to witness the drama that unfolds on the hallowed grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The essence of racing is captured not just in the speed of the cars but in the strategy, teamwork, and sheer determination of the drivers and their crews. This year’s Indianapolis 500 is shaping up to be one for the ages, with a talented field of drivers all vying for glory on Memorial Day weekend.
As the countdown to the race continues, expect to see thrilling performances, unexpected turns, and perhaps a few shocks along the way. The Indianapolis 500 is a stage where legends are born, and this year promises to be no different. Every lap, every pit stop, and every decision will be scrutinized as teams prepare to make their mark in racing history.
