Josef Newgarden is still feeling the effects of his recent win at the Indianapolis 500. Sitting in a New York City hotel conference room, he’s on the first day of a busy media tour. “It’s been 48 hours and I’m tired,” he admits. Winning the Indy 500 comes with a hectic schedule, but Newgarden sees it as a good problem to have.
Looking ahead, Newgarden is eager to return to his regular IndyCar season routine. Despite the victory, he knows there’s still a lot of racing left in the season. Currently in seventh place, he’s focused on climbing the standings.
But before talking about future plans, Newgarden reflects on the thrilling final moments of the race. With Pato O’Ward, he engaged in a fierce battle for victory. Recounting those last laps, Newgarden shares his insights on strategy and competition.
The Race Plan: Newgarden approached this year’s Indy 500 with a similar strategy to the previous year. Confident in his car’s performance, he aimed to position himself for success throughout the race.
Winning Formula: Newgarden emphasizes the importance of positioning and strategy in winning the Indy 500. It’s not just about being in the right place at the end; it’s about strategic moves throughout the race.
Race Dynamics: Newgarden describes the race’s changing dynamics, from cautious early laps to intense competition in the later stages. He recalls a moment when no one wanted to lead, highlighting the race’s strategic complexities.
Final Showdown: As the race neared its end, Newgarden found himself battling with Pato O’Ward. Analyzing his competitor’s strengths and weaknesses, he seized an opportunity to make a decisive move.
The Winning Move: Newgarden’s bold move on the final laps paid off, securing him the victory. Racing against O’Ward, he navigated the track with precision and confidence.
Trust and Respect: Despite fierce competition, Newgarden acknowledges the mutual respect between him and O’Ward. Their clean racing allowed for thrilling competition without unnecessary risks.
Nerve-Racking Moments: In the heat of the final laps, Newgarden faced tough decisions. Each move required split-second timing and calculated risks. Fortunately, everything fell into place, resulting in a well-deserved win.
