Scott McLaughlin, driver for Team Penske, recently emphasized that the team requires some time to recover and reorganize following the controversy at the Indianapolis 500. Despite the challenges, McLaughlin expressed confidence that the #3 Chevrolet-powered car and the team as a whole remain strong and capable moving forward.
The controversy surrounding Team Penske arose after two of their three cars were found to violate technical regulations during this year’s Indianapolis 500. This situation triggered significant leadership changes, including the departures of managing director Ron Ruzewski, general manager Kyle Moyer, and team president Tim Cindric. New leadership was then installed, with Jonathan Diuguid named president of <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/motorsports/indycar/”>IndyCar and Travis Law appointed competition director, aiming to stabilize the organization amid turmoil.
McLaughlin Reflects on Team’s Recovery Under New Management
Speaking to motorsports analyst Bob Pockrass, McLaughlin acknowledged the difficulties but remained optimistic about the future under the revamped leadership. He said,
“I wouldn’t want to be with another team in terms of when we’re down in this right now. With the resources and the people, I really think we’re going to be just fine. It’s going to take some time, but I feel like this is meant to happen and we’ll get going.” —Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske Driver
His remarks underscore a belief that despite recent setbacks, the organization’s foundation is solid enough to rebound. McLaughlin, 32, has been a key figure in Team Penske’s efforts to maintain competitiveness during this period of instability and rebuild trust within the team and its fan base.
Strong Start to the 2025 IndyCar Season for McLaughlin
The New Zealand driver has demonstrated resilience through his performances this season. At the season opener, the Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg on March 2, McLaughlin secured the pole position and finished fourth in the race. Similarly, at the Synk 275, although qualifying 27th, he again completed the race in fourth place, indicating consistency despite the ups and downs facing the team.
However, McLaughlin’s luck at the Indianapolis 500 itself was less favorable. During the 109th running at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 25, he qualified 10th but was unable to complete the race after crashing on the warm-up lap, intensifying the pressure on both driver and team to regroup and focus on future events.
Considering Double Duty and Long-Term Goals
McLaughlin also shared his thoughts on attempting “double duty” — competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the NASCAR Cup Series race at the same venue during the same weekend — a challenge recently undertaken by drivers like Kyle Larson. On the podcast Speed Freaks, McLaughlin expressed a cautious stance toward this prospect.
“I would do it, but I think I’ve got a few boxes I want to tick here in IndyCar first. I know it’s a boring answer, but it’s definitely something I’m really interested in doing, but I think I owe it to RP (Roger Penske) and the team to focus on what I’m doing here in IndyCar, and then the rest will follow,” —Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske Driver
“If you look at [Kyle] Larson; like he was burnt out from doing it the last couple of years and I need to make sure that I’ve won this big race and ultimately the one that I want to win the most, before I even think about moving on to something else and doing something crazy like that,” McLaughlin added. —Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske Driver
His comments reveal a careful approach to career progression, prioritizing IndyCar achievements before branching out to more gruelling challenges. It also reflects his loyalty to Team Penske and the strategic planning required amid the current rebuilding phase.
The Road Ahead for Team Penske and McLaughlin
With new leadership in place and McLaughlin’s steady start signaling potential, Team Penske is poised to move beyond the disruption caused by the Indianapolis 500 controversy. The coming races this season will test how effectively the team can harness its resources and talent to regain its competitive edge.
For McLaughlin, fulfilling key objectives in IndyCar remains the immediate focus, including securing that elusive victory at the Indianapolis 500. His experience and determination, combined with Team Penske’s rebuilding efforts, set the stage for a challenging but promising season ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Scott McLaughlin a dad?
A. He shared with Mike Hosking that being a dad has been a whirlwind experience, yet he has loved it. “I had an amazing Christmas and am absolutely thrilled about returning to the racetrack.” This weekend will be special because their daughter will visit the track for the first time, which McLaughlin is very excited about.
Q. Is Scott McLaughlin a father?
A. Scott McLaughlin, who recently became a father and loves golf, talks with James Hinchcliffe about his successful 2024 season as an INDYCAR driver.