Josef Newgarden, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, has turned his childhood fascination into a remarkable career in IndyCar racing, fulfilling what began as a 12-year-old dream. As the 2025 season neared its conclusion, Newgarden reflected on his early years and how competing at the Nashville Superspeedway inspired him to pursue IndyCar professionally.
Growing up in Nashville, Newgarden was introduced to racing at the Nashville Superspeedway, a 1.330-mile tri-oval that hosted its inaugural Indy Racing League event in 2001. At just 12 years old, attending his first race at this track made a lasting impression on him and helped shape his future aspirations in motorsport.
Early Career Beginnings and Transition to Open-Wheel Racing
Starting karting at the age of 13, Newgarden quickly demonstrated his talent by winning several championships that propelled him into single-seater open-wheel racing. He honed his skills through the Skip Barber Racing School Series, competing regionally and professionally before making the leap to European circuits, including the British Formula Ford Championship and GP3 series. These experiences were vital for his development as a driver before returning to the United States.
In 2011, Newgarden joined the Indy Lights (now Indy NXT), America’s proving ground for future IndyCar stars. Just one year later, he made his official IndyCar debut, achieving a milestone that was over a decade in the making since the seed of his dream was planted as a child watching races from the grandstands.
Reflections on a Dream Realized and Career Achievements
Before the 2025 IndyCar season finale at Nashville Superspeedway, Newgarden appeared on News Channel 5 to discuss his journey and recent successes, including a podium finish at the 2024 race on the same tri-oval that started his passion. He vividly recounted his early impressions of IndyCar racing:
“I used to go to the SuperSpeedway when I was a kid and watch IndyCar races. I thought it was the coolest thing, like a twelve year old sitting in the grand stands watching these things. They looked like rocket ships to me. That’s why I was drawn to them as a kid. I was like, ‘wow, how do humans drive these vehicles’ and was always so impressed by it” —Josef Newgarden, IndyCar driver
Newgarden also expressed gratitude for the opportunities and partners supporting his career:
“So the fact that I’ve made a career out of it, win so many races and drive for a Team like Team Penske and represent great partners like Astemo, Shell, PPG paints. It has been a crazy career, one that I never would’ve suspected. But I still love it, I still love going quick and see the youth get into it,” —Josef Newgarden, IndyCar driver
Team Penske’s Leadership Changes and Newgarden’s Support
During the 2025 season, Team Penske faced challenges following the attenuator scandal at the 109th Indianapolis 500, resulting in penalties against both Newgarden and teammate Will Power. This controversy led to significant leadership changes within the team, including the dismissal of Team President Tim Cindric, Managing Director Ron Ruzewski, and General Manager Kyle Moyer.
Jonathan Diuguid was promoted to Team President, a move welcomed by Newgarden, who expressed confidence in the new leadership and the depth of talent within the team:
“I’ve got a lot of confidence in Jonathan, and certainly our entire team, you know, we have great depth all the way across the board amongst everybody. I think Jonathan is a great leader and, you know, has been through so many different positions within a team and really understands the whole scope of the job.” —Josef Newgarden, IndyCar driver
Meanwhile, teammate Will Power secured the team‘s first victory of the 2025 season at the Grand Prix of Portland, highlighting the resilience of Team Penske amidst adversity.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Newgarden and IndyCar in Nashville
Josef Newgarden’s journey from a young fan at Nashville Superspeedway to a top contender in IndyCar racing embodies determination and passion. His success, combined with Team Penske’s renewed leadership under Jonathan Diuguid, sets the stage for continued competitiveness in upcoming seasons. As the sport grows, Newgarden’s story serves as an inspiration for young racers drawn to IndyCar, particularly in his hometown of Nashville, where his dream first took shape.