Penske Penalized Ahead of Indy 500

Penske drivers penalized before 2025 Indy 500.

Indy 500 Shakeup: Penske Faces Heavy Penalties Before Race Day

The 2025 Indy 500 is already full of surprises—and we’re not even at the green flag yet. Two of Team Penske’s biggest stars, Josef Newgarden and Will Power, have just been hit with major penalties for using unauthorized car parts during qualifying. This pre-race twist is already making headlines and shaking up the lineup.

AUTO: MAY 19 INDYCAR 109th Running of The Indianapolis 500 — Icon Sportswire

Penalties Hit Hard: Back of the Line + $100K Fines
As a result of the violations, Newgarden and Power will now start at the very back of the 33-car lineup. Not only did they lose their qualifying positions, but both teams were slapped with $100,000 fines. On top of that, each strategist is suspended for the remainder of the event.
Let’s be real—these aren’t just any drivers. Josef Newgarden is the reigning Indy 500 champion, and Will Power is a former series champ. That makes these penalties even more shocking. But INDYCAR is standing firm: rules are rules, no matter who you are.

AUTO: MAY 13 INDYCAR 109th Running of The Indianapolis 500 — Icon Sportswire

Not All Bad News for Penske: Car No. 3 Still in Play
While Newgarden and Power are starting from the back, not all of Team Penske is in trouble. Car No. 3 passed inspection with no issues and will begin the race in the 10th position. That gives the powerhouse team at least one shot to shake things up during Sunday’s race.
The timing couldn’t be more intense with the Indy 500 just days away. As fans fill up Speedway and millions tune in worldwide, the penalties are adding a whole new layer of pressure and unpredictability.

INDYCAR Sends a Message: Big Names Aren’t Untouchable
This isn’t just about car parts—it’s about setting the tone for integrity in the sport. INDYCAR made it clear that no team, no matter how legendary, gets a pass when it comes to bending the rules. That message is echoing across garages, group chats, and sports desks everywhere.
So now the big question is—can Newgarden or Power climb from the back and still make noise on race day?