Josef Newgarden’s recent dominance at Iowa Speedway may face challenges due to the track’s recent partial repaving. The .875-mile oval underwent resurfacing earlier this spring, prompting uncertainties about this weekend’s IndyCar Series doubleheader.
Newgarden, reflecting on the changes, emphasized the unpredictability of the upcoming races. He highlighted the significant impact of the new track surface on their car’s performance.
Last year, Newgarden swept both races in the doubleheader and has accumulated a total of six wins at Iowa Speedway, with four of those victories coming in the last five races.
The partial repaving focused on the turns, aimed at preparing the track for its NASCAR Cup Series debut in June. During that event, concerns arose about the track’s ability to support multiple racing lines for passing, although a second groove did develop early in the race.
IndyCar drivers, including Santino Ferrucci, expressed the need for a second racing line to ensure competitive racing rather than a single-file procession.
The effectiveness of creating a second groove was tested during Friday’s practice sessions, but feedback from drivers suggested it may not yet be sufficient for competitive racing.
Scott Dixon suggested additional high-line practice sessions before Saturday’s race to explore more racing options, indicating the current track conditions might pose challenges.
Despite challenges during practice, Scott McLaughlin managed the fastest lap, while Newgarden faced a 15th place finish in terms of speed.
