Indianapolis 500 Qualifying Penalties: Penske Cars Sent to Back of the Grid
In a significant enforcement action following qualifying for the Indianapolis 500, IndyCar officials announced that Josef Newgarden and Will Power of Team Penske will start at the back of the field due to technical violations involving their cars’ rear attenuators.
During scrutiny on Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, officials identified modifications on Newgarden’s No. 2 Chevrolet that breached regulations. While Power’s car passed inspection, the team attempted last-minute fixes but were ultimately disqualified from the Fast 12 qualifying session.
Newgarden, who initially qualified in 11th, will start 32nd, with Power dropping to 33rd. This decision came after competitors, including Pato O’Ward, voiced concerns over perceived unfair advantages stemming from the team’s qualifying performance.
IndyCar’s President J. Douglas Boles emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Indianapolis 500, stating, “The penalty should be more than simply starting where the cars might have qualified… Starting on the tail of the field is the appropriate penalty in this instance.” Both cars received a $100,000 fine, and strategists for each entry were suspended, along with a forfeiture of qualifying points.
In contrast, Scott McLaughlin’s No. 3 car was found compliant after inspection, alleviating concerns of broader issues within the team.
Boles concluded, reinforcing the series’ commitment to fair competition: “We want it to be clear that our intent is to maintain positive momentum and discourage teams from undermining the integrity of our officiating.”
This enforcement highlights IndyCar’s stringent adherence to regulations as the series heads into race weekend, setting a precedent for compliance and accountability within the sport.
