Josef Newgarden secured a historic victory at the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first back-to-back winner in 22 years. His remarkable driving skills and last-lap duel with Pato O’Ward left spectators in awe. Newgarden’s victory marks the first time a driver has won consecutive Indianapolis 500 races since Helio Castroneves achieved the feat in 2001 and 2002 with Team Penske.
Despite a four-hour rain delay, Newgarden executed a bold outside pass around Pato O’Ward into Turn 3 on the final lap, winning by a margin of 0.3417 seconds.Just like last year, Newgarden stopped his Chevrolet-powered car on the track and climbed through a hole in the fence to celebrate with fans in the grandstands. His love for the crowd was evident as he expressed his joy and gratitude.
“I love this crowd. I’ve got to always go in the crowd if we win here, I am always doing that,” said Newgarden, who earned a $440,000 bonus from trophy-maker BorgWarner for winning consecutive 500s. The award was established in 1995 and only claimed once, by Castroneves.
With this victory, Team Penske extends its record to 20 Indianapolis 500 wins. The team’s legacy in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” continues to grow, thanks to Newgarden’s exceptional performance.
O’Ward’s Disappointment After losing in the last lap to Josef Newgarden
Pato O’Ward, who was aiming to become the first Mexican driver to win the Indy 500, finished second. Despite his valiant efforts and several lead changes, he fell short. O’Ward’s emotions were evident as he removed his helmet after the race, reflecting on missed opportunities and heartbreak.
Josef Newgarden’s back-to-back triumph at the Indy 500 cements his place in racing history. As fans celebrate this thrilling victory, Team Penske’s legacy continues to shine bright on the iconic oval track.
Josef Newgarden secured a historic victory at the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first back-to-back winner in 22 years. His thrilling last-lap duel with Pato O’Ward captivated fans and showcased his remarkable driving skills.
Josef Newgarden’s feat is especially noteworthy because he is the first driver to achieve consecutive victories since Helio Castroneves did so in 2001 and 2002 with Team Penske. The twilight setting at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway added to the drama, leaving fans in awe as Newgarden secured his place in racing history.
