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IndyCar Teams Showcase Speed in Mock Qualifying at Speedway

On a bustling morning at the iconic 2.5-mile speedway, IndyCar teams engaged in mock qualifying runs, with Team Penske’s Scott McLaughlin clocking a blistering 232.686mph to secure the fastest lap of the session.

McLaughlin expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “We had a really good day, a good couple of days. I felt like we got through a lot from a hybrid perspective.” He noted the challenges during the morning qualifying session, describing it as somewhat unpredictable due to yellow flags and track conditions, which were affected by previous incidents. “When the track got better, it was a bit dirty from some of the shunts as well,” he added. Despite the hurdles, he was optimistic about the car’s balance as the Month of May commenced.

Following closely behind McLaughlin were two-time Indy 500 champion Takuma Sato, who reached 232.565mph, and Will Power, who registered a 232.278mph lap. The top five was completed by Felix Rosenqvist and reigning IndyCar champion Alex Palou. The rest of the top ten featured a mix of renowned drivers, including Scott Dixon, Kyle Kirkwood, Colton Herta, Josef Newgarden, and Kyffin Simpson.

Notably, Sato’s lap marked the fastest among drivers not receiving a tow during the morning session. However, his day ended earlier than expected, as he spun at the exit of Turn 1. He was not the only one to encounter difficulties; Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, also brushed the wall but managed to maintain control. Both drivers were evaluated and released from the infield care center, ensuring their readiness for upcoming sessions.

Afternoon Session Provides Smooth Sailing

In the afternoon, the session proceeded without incidents, despite a tense moment when Rinus VeeKay slowed at Turn 2, prompting those behind him to maneuver swiftly to avoid disaster. Larson and Sato were the only competitors missing in this part of the day’s events.

Alex Palou emerged as the fastest driver in race trim for Chip Ganassi Racing, achieving a speed of 223.993mph. He was closely pursued by Rosenqvist and Kirkwood. Kirkwood distinguished himself by posting the fastest no-tow speed in the afternoon with a lap of 218.861mph. Notably, both Rosenqvist and McLaughlin recorded the highest number of laps during the fifth practice of the week, each completing 112 laps.

“You need to keep on always chasing it and trying to make it better,” Palou remarked. He emphasized the importance of balance in the car to enhance both speed and comfort while racing in traffic and alone, underscoring the factors that contribute to a competitive edge in the upcoming events.

Across the five sessions conducted over Wednesday and Thursday, nine drivers each logged the equivalent of a full Indy 500 distance (200 laps) or more, with Simpson leading the pack by completing 265 laps among all 34 competitors.

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