Andretti is known for being strong in May races, but it’s been ten years since he had a real shot at winning the Indy 500.
Even though he got the pole position in 2020, he hasn’t been on the podium since 2014.
It’s been tough for him in the last three years, just doing the Indy race, and his best finish was 17th.
“I knew the last three years weren’t going to be great, so I felt a bit down,” said Andretti, who was a rookie standout in 2006 with a second-place finish.
But this year feels different for Andretti. He’ll start 19th, a spot that’s won the race twice before. He’s driving the No. 98 Andretti Herta with Marco & Curb-Agajanian Honda.
“The car seems faster this year,” said Andretti, who was 10th in Monday’s practice at 225.205mph. “It’s got more speed when we go fast.”
When asked if he has a good car to race with, Andretti said, “I think so, yeah. I’m cautiously optimistic.”
Part of his confidence comes from having Craig Hampson as his race engineer. Hampson worked with Alexander Rossi last season and has lots of experience.
“We don’t need to talk much because we both know what we’re doing,” Andretti said. “We’re on the same page.”
Andretti really wanted Hampson back on his team.
“I pushed to get him back sooner,” said Andretti, who’s the grandson of 1969 Indy 500 winner Mario. “I was mad when we missed signing him.”
Andretti also gave credit to Hampson for bringing on Robert Wickens as a coach. Wickens, who used to race with Arrow McLaren, won the 2023 IMSA title.
“He’s really important,” Andretti said. “He’s great at finding every little detail we need to win. And he’s always working hard.”
Wickens’ dedication inspires Andretti.
“He’s the last one in the garage, always working late,” Andretti said. “That’s the dedication it takes to win.”
