In the 2024 Indy 500, Scott McLaughlin set a blistering pace during qualifying, securing the fastest pole run in the event’s history with an average speed of 234.220 mph. His teammate, Will Power, had a solid performance but fell short, ending up with a four-lap average of 233.917 mph. Power, a two-time IndyCar Series champion, expressed his disappointment, acknowledging that McLaughlin’s opening lap was a game-changer.
Despite missing out on the pole position, Power’s runner-up effort marks his fifth front-row start at the Indy 500. Notably, this is his first front-row appearance since his victory in the prestigious race back in 2018.
With a total of 70 IndyCar Series poles to his name, Power remains the all-time leader in that category. However, he continues to chase the elusive top spot at the Indianapolis 500. Reflecting on his near misses, Power humorously remarked, “Yeah, I just keep getting seconds this year, but I’m not sure I’ll ever get this pole.” He added, “For some weird reasons, I just think it’s one of those things where the racing gods go, ‘Yeah, you can have the pole record, but you’re certainly not going to get this one.’”
Will Power’s Penske Teammate Takes Fastest Pole in Indy 500 History
In a historic moment at the 108th Indianapolis 500, Scott McLaughlin secured the pole position, setting a new record for the fastest four-lap average speed in the race’s history. The Team Penske driver’s remarkable achievement has captured the attention of racing enthusiasts worldwide.
McLaughlin’s four-lap average speed was an astonishing 234.220 mph, surpassing all previous pole-winning performances. His No. 3 Pennzoil Team Penske Chevrolet roared around the track, leaving competitors in awe.
McLaughlin’s pole position contributed to a front-row sweep by Team Penske. The last time this feat occurred was in 1988, with Rick Mears, Danny Sullivan, and Al Unser leading the charge. Now, McLaughlin joins this elite group of drivers.
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