Josef Newgarden joined fellow IndyCar drivers in honoring Father’s Day on Sunday, June 15, expressing a heartfelt message ahead of the upcoming IndyCar race at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. As the focus keyword suggests, Newgarden’s message highlighted the importance of fathers in his life just before the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 event in 2025.
The two-time IndyCar champion, driving for Team Penske, prepared for the race weekend by reflecting on the support he has received from his father, Joey Newgarden. Joey, who once operated a photography business, has occasionally been present at IndyCar tracks to support his son during races, as reported by NBC Sports.
In celebration of Father’s Day 2025, Josef conveyed his appreciation through a message dedicated to his dad:
“Gotta have love for the Dads. I wouldn’t be here without my dad for sure, most of us can say that. You know, it’s always a team effort, the Dads are a big deal, so thanks for all the Dads,” Newgarden said (0:40 – 0:47).
Currently, after seven races in the 2025 IndyCar season, Newgarden holds 126 points, securing 11th place in the driver standings. Among these performances, he has recorded one top-five and three top-ten finishes, aiming to build upon these results as the season progresses.
Josef Newgarden Reflects Optimistically After Qualifying at WWTR
The 2025 season has presented challenges for Josef Newgarden, impacting his ability to maintain a consistent performance rhythm. In the famous Indy 500 race last month, despite a promising run, Newgarden faced setbacks when his car and teammate Will Power’s car were relegated to the back due to a modified attenuator violation. Additionally, a mechanical failure ended his race prematurely on lap 135 out of 200.
However, the race weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway has offered a more encouraging outlook. In Saturday’s qualifying session, Newgarden secured a strong fifth-place starting position. He expressed his excitement on Instagram, stating:
“Starting p5 tonight. Let’s have some fun!”
Since debuting in America’s premier open-wheel racing series in 2012, Newgarden has achieved over 200 race starts, totaling 31 wins, 58 podium finishes, and 18 pole positions. His most recent championship victory came in 2019. With just one top-five finish so far this season, Newgarden will be aiming to improve his standing as the race unfolds, while his Penske teammate, Will Power, will start the race from the pole position.
This Father’s Day message and the upcoming race illustrate the blend of personal gratitude and professional determination that defines Newgarden’s 2025 campaign. As the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 progresses at the Madison track, fans will watch closely to see if Newgarden can convert this hopeful momentum into strong race results.