Newgarden’s Team Wins Pit Stop Challenge Before Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS — Josef Newgarden and his Team Penske crew are poised to defend their title at the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. The team captured first place in Friday’s Oscar Mayer $150,000 Pit Stop Challenge at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, marking their second consecutive win in the event.

Last year, they accomplished a rare double by winning both Memorial Day weekend events, an achievement only accomplished by seven teams in history. As confidence builds, strategist Luke Mason remarked, “There’s a reason why they’re back-to-back Pit Stop champions.”

The crew narrowly defeated their teammates from Will Power‘s crew in a best-of-three finals to boost morale as they head into race day, set for Sunday at 10 a.m. on FOX and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

Both Newgarden and Power will start in the last row, 32nd and 33rd respectively, after incurring a 21-position penalty for technical rules violations last Sunday during qualifying. This will be Newgarden’s deepest starting position in the “500.” Historical data shows only two drivers — Ray Harroun in 1911 and Louis Meyer in 1936 — have won the race from beyond the 28th position.

Despite the starting position, Newgarden showcased his speed during practice, clocking the fastest lap at 225.687 mph. Teammate Will Power followed closely behind, finishing fifth with a top speed of 224.419 mph. Newgarden praised his team for their hard work, stating, “They’re risking it every time we come in… I always feel so lucky to have them behind my back.”

The crew consists of tire changers and support staff who continuously practice to ensure successful pit stops are executed flawlessly. Newgarden’s team is now three-time champions in four years of the Pit Stop Challenge, gaining $50,000 for their performance. They aim for the record-extending 21st victory in the Indianapolis 500 for Team Penske.

Leading up to the event, the Pit Stop Challenge featured initial matchups after competitor Graham Rahal withdrew from the event due to mechanical issues. With only 13 teams competing, Newgarden emerged victorious over multiple rounds, defeating notable competitors like Colton Herta and reigning points leader Alex Palou before securing his place in the finals against Power, O’Ward, and Scott Dixon.