Scott Dixon Tops Indy 500 Test with 225 MPH Lap
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was abuzz with excitement as Scott Dixon, a six-time NTT IndyCar Series champion, showcased a stellar performance during the first day of the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge Open Test.
Dixon, who last won the Indianapolis 500 in 2008, clocked the fastest lap at 225.182 mph. This set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling race.
Scott Dixon Leads the Pack
Contents
Scott Dixon’s lap of 225.182 mph in his No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda has set the tone for the upcoming Indianapolis 500.
Dixon tested the hybrid system at this venue for the first time. He emphasized the importance of the test for developing race strategies and building muscle memory.
Testing with the Hybrid System
The hybrid system adds a new layer of complexity to the race. Dixon noted that it could significantly impact strategies, especially during the shootout at the end.
The test helped clarify scenarios to ensure drivers are well-prepared for the main event.
Other Top Performers
While Dixon led the pack, other drivers also impressed on the track. Two-time reigning race champion Josef Newgarden was a close second, clocking in at 225.125 mph in the No. 2 Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Team Penske Chevrolet.
Newgarden aims to become the first driver to win the Indianapolis 500 three years in a row. This would be a historic achievement.
Josef Newgarden’s Perspective
Newgarden expressed satisfaction with his car’s performance. He highlighted the importance of having a fast car to address any other issues.
He remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging that the real challenge lies ahead.
Takuma Sato’s Vigorous Start
Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Takuma Sato also made a strong showing, ending up third at 225.069 mph in the No. 75 AMADA Honda.
Sato’s performance is impressive as this is a one-off effort for the Indianapolis 500.
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s Performance
Sato’s team, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, has shown they are a force to be reckoned with. Their strong performance during the test suggests they could be serious contenders.
Honda’s Dominance
Honda engines dominated the test day. Honda-powered cars occupied nine of the top ten spots, with Newgarden as the only Chevrolet driver in that group.
This dominance extended to the “no-tow” list, which tracks drivers’ best laps without the aerodynamic advantage of a slipstream.
Top No-Tow Drivers
Felix Rosenqvist led the no-tow list with a lap of 220.835 mph in the No. 60 SiriusXM Honda. Three-time series champion Alex Palou followed at 220.354 mph in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.
This trend indicates that Honda engines are both fast and reliable.
Upcoming Testing Sessions
Testing will continue with sessions scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday. Teams will have access to elevated turbo boost levels similar to those used during “Fast Friday” practice and Armed Forces Qualifying.
The boost levels will be reduced to race levels for the final segment of testing. This will provide teams with a comprehensive understanding of their cars’ performance under different conditions.
Drivers to Watch
- Pato O’Ward: Currently 16th overall, O’Ward is keen to see how the hybrid system will be utilized in qualifying.
- Alex Palou: Despite completing only 46 laps, Palou remains a strong contender, ending up sixth overall.
- Robert Shwartzman: The rookie was the busiest driver, turning 133 laps in the No. 83 PREMA Racing Chevrolet.
- Kyle Larson: Larson aims to complete the “Double” by racing in both the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Final Thoughts
The first day of testing for the 109th Indianapolis 500 has provided valuable insights into the performance of drivers and teams.
Scott Dixon’s top speed has set high expectations for the event.
The dominance of Honda engines suggests a competitive edge for those teams.
For more detailed information, you can read the full article on Speed Sport.
