INDIANAPOLIS – Now is the time to tune into American auto racing at its highest levels, on display all weekend at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where NASCAR and IndyCar will intersect with both series embroiled in turmoil.
Two-time IndyCar champion Josef Newgarden was cleared to compete on the road course on Indy’s hallowed grounds after successfully completing Friday morning practice and passing a third medical evaluation. The 31-year-old driver from Nashville collapsed and hit his head this past Sunday at Iowa Speedway, about 90 minutes after he’d crashed while leading the race.
He said he assumes he suffered a concussion when he hit his head in the motorhome lot but spent the first part of the week somewhat isolated in an attempt to heal so he could race Saturday. As he battles for a third series crown, Newgarden is tied with six-time champion Scott Dixon at 369 points and behind only Marcus Ericsson (403 points) and Will Power (395) in the season standings.
Ericsson and Dixon drive for Chip Ganassi Racing, while Power and Newgarden are part of Team Penske.
“I really was very motivated to be here this weekend; I knew if we weren’t in this race, it was going to be very difficult to stay in this championship fight,” Newgarden said. “That was the end for me. I know that we have to be in the race, so whatever I have to do to be fit and prepared is No. 1 on my plate.”