In a thrilling one-lap shootout at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the two-time IndyCar champion emerged victorious. The Team Penske driver from Henderson, Tennessee, made a daring pass on defending race winner Marcus Ericsson just before the finish line, securing his first-ever win at the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” This historic triumph also marked Roger Penske’s 19th victory as the team owner on this legendary track.
Newgarden said, “I just felt like everyone kept asking me why I haven’t won this race. And, you know, they look at you like you’re a failure if you don’t win it, and I wanted to win it so bad” (an article in USA Today reported)
“I was emotional for the entire final 10 laps because I believed we had a chance to contend for the victory in the finish. And I was aware that it wouldn’t be simple. But I can assure you that we will love it tonight. When we can celebrate, that will be fantastic.
To rejoice with the spectators, 32-year-old Newgarden leapt out of his car, ran through the gate by the flagpole, and ran up the stairs.
In a remarkable feat, Josef Newgarden secured his 27th IndyCar win at The Brickyard. Despite never finishing better than third in his previous 11 attempts, Newgarden overcame his 17th starting position and led only five laps, marking the furthest back a winner has started since 2014.
He expressed his gratitude to Indianapolis and acknowledged the city’s role in creating an electrifying event. Joined by his team in victory lane, Newgarden celebrated with a bottle of whole milk.
In a thrilling Indy 500, Ericsson of Chip Ganassi Racing secured second place, trailed closely by Santino Ferrucci of AJ Foyt Racing. Ericsson aimed to become the first repeat winner since Helio Castroneves in 2001-02. Despite a pit road collision, pole winner Alex Palou rebounded to claim a commendable fourth place for Ganassi.
Alexander Rossi, the 2016 Indy 500 champion, finished fifth for Arrow McLaren. Rounding out the top 10 were Dixon, Sato, Daly, Herta, and VeeKay, adding to the race’s exhilaration.