Josef Newgarden has faced significant difficulties securing Top Five and podium finishes during the 2025 IndyCar season, highlighting a downward trend for the two-time champion. Team Penske driver Conor Daly recently shared insights into Newgarden’s struggle, revealing how the driver appears mentally worn yet determined to challenge his competitors fiercely at the upcoming WWT Raceway event.
Despite a promising start with a podium at St. Petersburg, Newgarden has managed only two Top 10 finishes over the next six races. His hopes for a historic third consecutive Indy 500 victory were dashed amid controversy and mechanical issues. Disqualified to the back of the grid due to qualifying penalties linked to Team Penske, Newgarden overcame the setback to climb back to sixth place before a fuel pump failure abruptly ended his race.
Conor Daly Reflects on Newgarden’s Mental State Amid Criticism
During a recent episode of his Speed Street podcast, Conor Daly offered a candid view of Newgarden’s emotional state.
“I think Josef Newgarden has had a rough go. I saw him at the Detroit driver intros, and he looks very sad. I feel bad. A lot of people are hating on Josef right now, and I want to let people know what that could do to a driver’s mental side. It’s cool if he’s not your favorite, and booing people, that happens all the time, that’s sports. But I don’t think Josef is personally going out and attacking people.” —Conor Daly, IndyCar Driver
Daly also addressed the harsh judgment Newgarden has received from fans, connected to Team Penske’s 2024 push-to-pass controversy and the fallout of this year’s Indy 500 qualifying scandal.
“Obviously, the team has done some things that they’ve got in trouble for, which is fine to be upset with the team. But I think a lot of people are coming after Josef personally. I felt bad for Josef. I’ve known Josef since I was a kid.” —Conor Daly, IndyCar Driver
Even without a definitive explanation for Newgarden’s recent downturn, Daly believes the driver’s competitive fire remains strong.
WWT Raceway: Newgarden’s Favorite Track Promises a Comeback Opportunity
The next IndyCar event at WWT Raceway, scheduled for June 13–14, presents a pivotal chance for Newgarden to regain momentum. The 1.25-mile oval has historically been a site of dominance for him, with five career victories including three consecutive wins from 2020 to 2022 and another in 2024. The 34-year-old driver returns as the defending champion and a leading contender for the upcoming race weekend.
Daly expects Newgarden to deliver a commanding performance at WWT Raceway.
“I think you could see a Josef domination weekend. I think he wants to rebound. This is one of his stronger tracks ever. I think he wants to just destroy everyone. In his face, it just looks like he wants to literally step on your throat,” —Conor Daly, IndyCar Driver
Although Daly has experienced mixed results himself during the 2025 season with Juncos Hollinger Racing, including an eighth-place finish at the Indy 500 caused by a tire issue, he remains optimistic about Newgarden’s prospects. Interestingly, Daly’s own contract with JHR began part-time at last year’s WWT Raceway before advancing to a full-time seat this season.
Signs Point to a Potential Newgarden Resurgence at Bommarito Automotive Group 500
Josef Newgarden’s ongoing struggles in the 2025 IndyCar season contrast with his record of success at WWT Raceway, where he has consistently performed at his best. With heightened focus and experience on this oval, he is primed for a significant turnaround. This race could be the catalyst for Newgarden to reassert his standing in the series and recover from a challenging start.
As the season progresses, Newgarden’s ability to overcome adversity will be closely observed by fans and competitors alike, especially given the emotional and reputational pressures he has endured. The upcoming Bommarito Automotive Group 500 may prove crucial in shaping the remainder of his championship campaign.
