Josef Newgarden’s 2025 IndyCar Toronto crash ended his race early after a dramatic collision with rookie driver Jacob Abel during a restart following a caution. The incident occurred on the tight and challenging Toronto street circuit, involving multiple cars but ultimately ending the day for both Newgarden and Abel.
IndyCar’s only international race of the season took place on the bumpy Toronto streets, known for its frequent crashes and caution periods. This weekend’s race unfolded much the same, with multiple incidents throughout the event.
Chain Reaction Leads to Multi-Car Incident at Turn 1
The third caution was triggered when Alexander Rossi made contact with the barrier, prompting a restart just past the one-third mark of the race. Jacob Abel was running ahead of David Malukas and Louis Foster as the pack prepared to resume the competition.
Abel struggled with his restart, and Malukas quickly overtook him at Turn 1. Attempting to follow Malukas, Louis Foster brushed against Abel, pushing the rookie into the wall. Josef Newgarden, running just behind the trio, had no time to avoid the crash and collided directly into Abel’s car.
The Dale Coyne Racing vehicle piloted by Abel came to rest atop Newgarden’s #2 Team Penske Chevrolet, effectively ending the race for both drivers. Devlin DeFrancesco spun while trying to avoid piled-up traffic, and Kyle Kirkwood narrowly escaped involvement by swerving away from the scene.
Drivers Exit Safely but Frustration Mounts for Newgarden
Both Newgarden and Abel were unharmed and exited their vehicles without issue. However, Newgarden appeared visibly frustrated and downcast after the collision, signaling continued misfortune in his 2025 campaign.
“Wrong place, wrong time. Just want to say thanks to PPG, Chevrolet and all our supporters at home.”
—Josef Newgarden, driver
Additional Caution Caused by Teammate Scott McLaughlin’s Pitstop Issue
Earlier in the race, Scott McLaughlin, Newgarden’s Team Penske teammate, brought out the initial caution after a pitstop mistake. His rear left wheel nut was not properly secured, causing the tire to come loose and forcing McLaughlin to retire prematurely.
Josef Newgarden’s String of Misfortunes in the 2025 Season
Despite strong speed and consistent performances throughout 2025, Josef Newgarden and Team Penske have been plagued by bad luck across multiple race weekends. Starting the Indy 500 from the back row due to the attenuator controversy, Newgarden was gaining ground until a fuel system failure forced him to retire from the event.
At the World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR), Newgarden was leading when an accident involving Louis Foster ended his run. Later, pit strategy and untimely cautions cost him chances at victory in both Iowa races, leaving Newgarden still searching for better fortune.
Eliminated in the first round of the Indy Toronto race, Newgarden appeared visibly deflated after his outing. He now sits 14th in the overall standings, facing an uphill battle as the season progresses.
