Team Penske struggles with shocking qualifying performance at Thermal
Team Penske faced unexpected challenges during The Thermal Club IndyCar Grand Prix qualifying, marking a stark contrast to their recent pole position at St. Petersburg with Scott McLaughlin.
Driver next to racing car
The Chevrolet-powered team struggled significantly, with Josef Newgarden managing only 17th position in the No. 2 car. Will Power, known for his qualifying prowess, landed in 21st with the No. 12 car, while pole-sitter from St. Pete, Scott McLaughlin, finished last in his qualifying group, placing 25th on the grid.
"We just weren't quick," Newgarden admitted, acknowledging the team's collective performance issues despite feeling confident before qualifying.
The affiliated AJ Foyt Racing teams showed better form, with David Malukas securing 12th and Santino Ferrucci taking 14th, both benefiting from Penske setup data.
Power attributed his disappointing performance to tire temperature issues, noting, "We were good in every single session except the one that counted. When it came time to do it, it wasn't there."
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