Scott McLaughlin and Josef Newgarden both faced setbacks during the qualifying rounds at the 2025 IndyCar Bitnile.com Grand Prix of Portland, with McLaughlin eliminated in Round 1 and Newgarden failing to progress beyond Round 2. These results left both drivers frustrated as they prepared for the main event.
McLaughlin expressed disappointment after his early exit, explaining his frustration and the challenges his car presented:
“I think I didn’t quite get that last lap together. Yeah, just really frustrated with myself really. So yeah, honestly, the Gallagher Chevy didn’t roll out great, but we made it better. I’m really proud of the guys, I think, consistently working, so I just want to deliver for the guys, you know. I’m pretty hard on myself.”
Newgarden, a two-time IndyCar champion, was also disheartened by his failure to move into the Fast Six, noting the team’s efforts to quickly install a new engine after Practice 2:
“Yeah, I think the team did a great job, they put in a new engine quickly, so amazing job. They are the best of the best, so always feel good about that, just bummed we couldn’t make it into the Fast Six today.”
Due to his Round 2 elimination and an additional six-place grid penalty, Newgarden will be starting further back in the field for the race tomorrow.
Current Season Performance Reflects Ongoing Difficulties
Both McLaughlin and Newgarden have experienced a tough 2025 season so far, with neither driver holding a position inside the top ten in the overall standings after fourteen rounds. Their performances at Portland followed a pattern of challenges seen throughout the year.
In the most recent race, the Java House Grand Prix of Monterey, McLaughlin finished in tenth place, while Newgarden fell to eleventh despite beginning the race from fourth position. The results have left both drivers needing stronger showings to regain momentum.
Reflecting on the recent race, Newgarden remarked on the importance of steady finishes amid a difficult stretch:
“Honestly, it was great to get a solid, fairly stress-free finish this weekend. We’ve had a tough stretch here with DNFs and that has us behind a bit from where we need to be.”
Portland Race Crucial for Improving Standings
The upcoming Grand Prix of Portland represents a key opportunity for both drivers to enhance their standings in the tightly contested 2025 IndyCar season. Scott McLaughlin currently sits in twelfth place, while Josef Newgarden is positioned fifteenth.
Given their qualifying difficulties, McLaughlin and Newgarden will need to execute strong race strategies and take advantage of any chances that arise on race day to climb back toward the leaders. Their performances in this event can substantially influence their campaigns moving forward.