Josef Newgarden had a successful day in Detroit, securing a third-place qualifying run and signing a multi-year contract extension with Penske Racing. Reflecting on his recent achievements, Newgarden expressed his gratitude towards Team Penske, stating that they have been like family to him for the past eight years.
Newgarden's journey with Team Penske has been eventful, marked by victories and challenges. Following their triumph at the 24 Hours of Daytona, Newgarden faced a setback when he was disqualified after winning the season opener in St. Petersburg due to illegal modifications to the push-to-pass engine-boost system.
Despite the obstacles, Team Penske stood by Newgarden, with owner Roger Penske commending the driver's exceptional performance both on and off the track. Penske emphasized Newgarden's winning spirit and expressed excitement about the continued partnership.
A seasoned driver, Newgarden, a two-time series champion, celebrated his 200th start this season and has consistently ranked in the top five in the season standings over the past eight years. Reflecting on his achievements, Newgarden acknowledged the missed opportunities for additional championships but remained optimistic about the future.
At 33 years old, Newgarden believes there is still much more to accomplish in his career. With 30 career wins under his belt, he is determined to increase that number significantly and aims to continue his success with Team Penske.
Looking ahead, Newgarden expressed confidence in his potential to achieve even greater milestones, fueled by his partnership with a top-tier team. As he sets his sights on future races, Newgarden remains focused on pushing the boundaries of his success in the competitive world of IndyCar racing.
For more IndyCar updates, visit AP IndyCar.