IndyCar 2025: Drivers Who Must Shine in the Second Half

As the 2025 IndyCar season hits its midpoint, a handful of drivers find themselves in a tough spot. They need big performances in the second half to keep their hopes alive.

The pressure’s on, and honestly, the stakes are higher than ever for these folks. Some haven’t met expectations, while others have dealt with setbacks no one saw coming.

Let’s dig into the stories of eight IndyCar drivers who have the spotlight on them right now. What do they need to do to flip their seasons around?

Drivers Facing a Pivotal Second Half

The first half of the season is in the books. Some drivers just haven’t delivered, and a few have been bitten by bad luck or mechanical gremlins.

Now it’s all about consistency, smart driving, and maybe a little bit of luck. If these drivers want to make a splash in the final stretch, they can’t afford to slip up.

1. Alexander Rossi

Alexander Rossi’s year has felt like a wild ride—brilliant at times, but way too up and down. He’s got to piece together solid finishes if he wants to move up the standings.

For Rossi, it’s about finding that sweet spot between aggression and precision. Every point matters now.

2. Rinus VeeKay

Rinus VeeKay flashes serious speed but struggles to turn it into podiums. The young Dutchman needs to tighten up his racecraft and cut down on mistakes.

If he can do that, he could really lock himself in as one to watch.

3. Jack Harvey

Jack Harvey just can’t catch a break—mechanical issues, on-track incidents, you name it. He needs to grab some consistency and make the most of his qualifying runs.

Honestly, a couple strong finishes could flip the whole story for him.

4. Felix Rosenqvist

Felix Rosenqvist’s season is all over the map. He needs to find a way to run up front more often.

If he sharpens up his race strategy and manages tires better, he could rack up some valuable points.

5. Simon Pagenaud

Simon Pagenaud, a former champ, just hasn’t found his groove this year. He needs to lean on his experience and nail the execution on race day.

He knows how to win—maybe it’s just a matter of stringing a few good results together.

6. James Hinchcliffe

James Hinchcliffe’s full-time return hasn’t gone according to plan. He needs to qualify better and steer clear of trouble during races.

Consistency is everything for Hinchcliffe if he wants to get back on track.

Young Guns Looking to Make a Statement

The 2025 season has a fresh crop of young drivers itching to prove themselves. They’ve shown glimpses of talent, but it’s time to back it up with results.

7. Callum Ilott

Callum Ilott has moments where he looks like a future star, but he can’t quite stay near the front. He needs to zero in on race strategy and tire management.

If he puts it together, he could really turn heads in the second half.

8. David Malukas

David Malukas is riding out a tough rookie season, but you can see the potential. He should focus on learning from each race and sharpening his racecraft.

A couple of good finishes could boost his confidence and set him up for something bigger down the road.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

The second half of the 2025 IndyCar season is coming up fast. For these eight drivers, the pressure’s real.

They’ve all got the talent. But turning things around? That’s going to take grit, focus, and honestly, maybe a little luck too.

Curious about the details and what might shake out? You can dive deeper in the full article at eight IndyCar drivers who need a big second half of 2025.