Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward Reflects on Indy 500 Controversy Ahead of 2024 Race
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Ahead of the 2024 Indianapolis 500, Arrow McLaren driver Pato O’Ward reaffirmed his stance regarding last year’s race, stating he does not wish to inherit the victory following allegations of illegality against the Tekno Penske cars. Despite discussions about the legality of the rear attenuator modifications on the cars of Josef Newgarden and Will Power, O’Ward maintains that the integrity of the race remains paramount.
During Sunday’s Fast 12 qualifying session, IndyCar penalized Newgarden and Power for violating technical specifications—resulting in their disqualification from the qualifying line and relegation to 32nd and 33rd on the starting grid, respectively. Both drivers incurred fines of $100,000. The controversy deepened with images from victory lane suggesting the same illegal modifications may have contributed to the victory in 2023, when Newgarden narrowly beat O’Ward by 0.3417 seconds.
“I would have never wanted to win an Indy 500 a year later just because one car got caught being illegal,” O’Ward stated. “I truly believe Josef won that race. He timed it better than I did."
O’Ward emphasized his desire to win the Indy 500 through legitimate competition, reinforcing his objective as he qualified third for this year’s event. "I want to experience what any Indy 500 winner gets to experience," he said, highlighting the significance of the victory beyond mere results.
On the other hand, Newgarden is focusing on strategy as he aims for an unprecedented third consecutive Indy 500 win, despite starting from the back of the grid. “There is no one formula to win the Indianapolis 500,” he noted, reflecting on his rise from 17th to victory two years prior. “You have to give yourself a chance at the right time. This race is an endurance event; managing yellows and strategy is key.”
Both drivers now look ahead to what promises to be an intense race this Sunday, each carrying their respective narratives into the historic event.
