Team Penske Faces Backlash Over Violations Ahead of Indy 500
Indianapolis Motor Speedway — Team Penske has found itself at the center of controversy following rules violations involving modified rear attenuators on the No. 12 and No. 2 cars, which will be penalized in the Indy 500. Both vehicles have been sent to the rear of the starting grid for this Sunday’s race, adding to the organization’s challenges as it seeks to reclaim its standing in the motorsport world.
This week, Team Penske announced significant management changes, including the departures of IndyCar team president Tim Cindric, managing director Ron Ruzewski, and general manager Kyle Moyer. These changes reflect a broader trend within the organization to reassess its operations and maintain competitive integrity.
Roger Penske, the organization’s owner, expressed his disappointment regarding the situation. “When I look at my right hand and say, what about Team Penske? We really have had an organizational failure,” he stated in an interview with IndyCar on FOX. “It hurts me in my gut.”
He acknowledged previous lapses and emphasized the need for credibility within the sport. Penske noted the importance of an independent oversight mechanism for technical inspections, stating that discussions have been underway for several months to enhance the governance structure of IndyCar.
The incident raised further concerns over Penske’s dual role as owner of both Team Penske and IndyCar. In response to queries about potential conflicts of interest, he remarked, “I have not been on a pit box… I have nothing to do with officiating, especially the rules.”
The ramifications of the violations extend to the performance scrutiny of drivers like Josef Newgarden, who previously won the 2024 Indy 500 using the same modified attenuators. Penske confirmed that a total of nine modified components were circulated among cars over the past 15 months, although his team insists the race-winning vehicle underwent extensive inspection and was deemed legal post-race.
In a call with team owners, Penske reiterated his commitment to uphold the sport’s integrity, stating, “I’ve got to take the role on… and gain back that credibility.”
As the Indy 500 approaches, Team Penske is determined to address both internal and external perceptions to ensure a successful and conflict-free race.
