IndyCar Teams Now Look Forward to $1 Million Prize Challenge
- Newgarden & Team Penske Dominate Season Opener
- O’Ward Settles for Runner-Up
- Next Up – The $1 Million Challenge
In a flawless start to the season, Josef Newgarden showcased his mastery at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. Driving the No. 2 PPG Team Penske Chevrolet, Newgarden secured a commanding victory, finishing 7.9121 seconds ahead of runner-up Pato O’Ward in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet.
Under the bright sun and amidst a packed crowd, including music icons Jon Bon Jovi and Bret Michaels, Newgarden asserted his dominance by leading 92 of 100 laps. His stellar performance earned him his 30th career INDYCAR SERIES victory, breaking the tie with legend Rick Mears for 13th on the all-time win list.
Team Penske’s triumph marked the pinnacle of an exceptional weekend, with Scott McLaughlin clinching third place and Will Power securing fourth, reaffirming the team’s dominance on the 1.8-mile street circuit.
Newgarden’s commanding lead was briefly challenged by caution periods and pit strategies, but he maintained control throughout, clinching victory with ease in the final laps. Expressing his satisfaction, Newgarden credited his team’s hard work for their success, emphasizing the improvement in speed and execution compared to the previous season.
Despite a solid performance, O’Ward acknowledged the Penskes’ strength, foreseeing a fiercely competitive season ahead.
Among the rookies, Kyffin Simpson stood out with a commendable 14th place finish in the competitive field.
Looking ahead to The $1 Million Challenge, a non-points race scheduled at The Thermal Club near Palm Springs, California.
RESULTS
Article by AutomotiveWoman.com Editor, Juliana Chiovitti, aka @AutomotiveWoman online.
IMAGES: IndyCar
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