The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was abuzz with excitement on Sunday as the 105th running of the Indianapolis 500 took place. The race, which was delayed by four hours due to heavy rain and lightning, saw its first back-to-back winner in 22 years.
Josef Newgarden of Team Penske emerged victorious, making history as the first driver to win back-to-back since Brazilian Helio Castroneves in 2001 and 2002. The race was filled with twists and turns, with New Zealand’s Scott Dixon finishing third.
The crowd’s patience paid off as they were treated to a dramatic finale. Mexican driver Pato O’Ward gave Newgarden a late challenge, taking the lead on the final lap, but Newgarden managed to pass him going into turn three to secure his victory. This win marked Penske’s 20th victory in the Indy 500.
Newgarden celebrated his win by jumping into the crowd and commending O’Ward for his clean driving. O’Ward expressed his disappointment at coming so close to victory yet again, praising his team’s efforts during the race. The lead changed hands an incredible 87 times over the 500 miles, with 16 different race leaders. Alexander Rossi of Arrow McLaren finished fourth, and Spaniard Alex Palou of Chip Ganassi Racing placed fifth. Penske’s Scott McLaughlin, who started on pole, finished sixth in the race.
