INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Joseph Newgarden and his teammate Will Power are starting from the last two positions on the grid following a controversial qualifying weekend for Team Penske, which marks the second incident in over a year regarding the team’s IndyCar program. Rule violations will result in penalties.
Additionally, it was announced on Monday that the team strategists for cars No. 2 and 12 have been suspended for the race. Their qualifications points and pit box selections will also be confiscated, and both entries will incur a $100,000 fine.
“It’s essential for our sport’s investors and stakeholders to believe in a fair playing field,” IndyCar President Doug Boles stated prior to Monday’s practice at the Speedway.
“This clearly demonstrates to the paddock that we are addressing these issues with seriousness,” Boles added.
In a statement, Team Penske acknowledged it would “accept the penalties imposed by the IndyCar series.”
“We are disappointed in the outcome and its impact on our organization,” the statement said. “We will disclose further details related to our upcoming Indianapolis 500 representatives later this week.”
Team Penske’s challenges began before the fast 12 shootout on Sunday when rival team owner Chip Ganassi accused them of cheating. His team observed unauthorized modifications to the rear attenuator, a safety device designed to absorb and lessen impact forces, suggesting that these changes provided an aerodynamic edge during qualifying.
Tim Cindric, president of Penske’s IndyCar program, noted that while Power passed inspection, Newgarden’s car was flagged, and officials indicated it would not pass after his turn. Consequently, the car was entirely withdrawn from the lineup.
Boles initially mentioned on Sunday that Newgarden and Power would join teammate Scott McLaughlin, who crashed in practice, in the fourth row due to failing to qualify. However, after gathering more information, it was decided to place Newgarden in the 32nd starting position and Power.
McLaughlin retained the 10th starting position as his repaired car conformed to the regulations regarding the attenuator.
“This violation of INDYCAR regulations concerning modifications is clear, and we will adhere to the original specifications,” Boles remarked. “The penalty extends beyond just starting at a position they might have otherwise qualified for; in this case, the proper consequence results in two out of 33 starting from the back of the pack.”
Last year, Team Penske faced repercussions over a push-to-pass controversy, allowing Newgarden to increase horsepower illegally during the season opener, leading to the loss of his victory and penalties for team owner Roger Penske, who also owns IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – Cindric was suspended for two races, including the Indy 500.
Managing Director Ron Ruzewski, Newgarden’s engineer Luke Mason, and data engineer Robbie Atkinson have also been suspended.
This marks Cindric and Ruzewski’s second consecutive absence from the Indy 500.
“As far as I’m concerned, this matter is concluded,” Boles stated.
Newgarden, aiming to be the first driver to win three consecutive 500s, was a contender for the pole. He was seen expressing frustration around the Speedway on Sunday as the qualifying session unfolded.
Pat O’Ward, driving for rival Arrow McLaren, remarked that IndyCar should penalize the two Penske cars by making them participate in last-chance qualifying, as they should be held accountable. He expressed confusion about why Team Penske continues to test the limits of the rules.
“That’s disappointing,” O’Ward said. “They are a strong team with talented drivers. Why engage in such practices? It doesn’t add up.”
O’Ward also sympathized with the four drivers competing for the last three qualifying spots. IndyCar rookie Jacob Abel, who performed well, ultimately missed the race.
“I see all the discussions. We adhered to the rules, and I’m grateful for the support,” Abel said. “Nonetheless, we had a clear task Saturday and Sunday. Unfortunately, it’s technicalities that kept us out. I wanted to be there.”
___
AP Auto Racing Writer Jenna Fryer contributed to this report.
___
AP Auto Racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing
Source: apnews.com