David Malukas Returns Strong with Third-Place Finish at Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — One year after a serious wrist injury sidelined him, David Malukas returned to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday, finishing third in the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500.

Driving the No. 4 Clarience Technologies Chevrolet for A.J. Foyt Enterprises, Malukas reflected on his journey, stating, “Last year, there was a chance I would never be back in the INDYCAR paddock again.” He watched the race as a spectator from Turn 1, but a year later, he found himself competing for the win.

Malukas’ 2024 season began with high hopes after signing with Arrow McLaren, but a mountain biking accident in February disrupted his plans and led to his release from the team. In a surprising turn, he contributed to INDYCAR’s content team while he healed. Once fit to race, he landed a part-time position with Meyer Shank Racing, which reignited his career and later earned him a full-time ride with AJ Foyt Racing for 2025.

Before entering the Indy 500, Malukas had not achieved a finish better than 13th this season. However, he delivered a remarkable performance on Sunday, racing among the leaders and ultimately claiming third place.

Malukas described the finish as bittersweet. “It’s bittersweet because you’re just so close to greatness,” he said. He acknowledged that his lack of experience in late-race strategy may have cost him the win, as decisions about the car’s setup had to be made on the fly. “They got us, and we tried to get that setup to where it needed to be on that final run,” he added.

As for the race winner, Alex Palou, he took the lead with 14 laps to go, executing a strong final push that secured him the victory. Malukas expressed respect for Palou’s skills and strategy in the last laps.