Competing in Formula 1 is a dream many drivers nurture during their formative years in racing, and Josef Newgarden is no exception. The IndyCar driver has openly discussed his ambitions to venture into F1 before ultimately choosing to focus on the American open-wheel racing series. Born in Nashville, Newgarden began his racing journey with karting, quickly realizing that it was more than just a hobby but rather a launch pad to several junior racing series.
While Newgarden explored various racing avenues, including stock cars and IndyCar, he was particularly captivated by the allure of Formula 1. In a 2020 interview reflecting on his early career, he shared insights about his aspirations and the reasons why they never fully materialized. “I always dreamed of F1, but the path to get there was complicated,” he remarked during a discussion with All Things Automotive.
Although Newgarden’s Formula 1 aspirations did not come to fruition, he has firmly established his legacy in American racing. The Team Penske driver has won two drivers’ titles in 2017 and 2019 and is a two-time champion of the Indy 500, often referred to as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. This success has solidified his place in history within the sport.
As the current racing season unfolds, Newgarden stands on the brink of making headlines again. He is positioned to become the first driver ever to win the Indy 500 three times in a row, a remarkable achievement that underscores his skill and tenacity. Recently, he participated in the Indy 500 testing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he demonstrated his prowess by clocking an impressive second-fastest time of 225.125 mph, trailing only Scott Dixon.
Following the testing, Newgarden shared his excitement with the IndyCar official website, reflecting on his performance: “I felt good out there, and it’s all about building momentum as we head toward the Indy 500.” Despite a somewhat unpredictable start to the 2025 season, with one top-five finish and another in the top ten across the initial races, Newgarden’s optimism remains steadfast as he heads into the crucial Indy 500 race.
As Josef Newgarden continues to chase greatness in IndyCar, his previous dreams of Formula 1 still resonate, reminding fans of the diverse paths within the sport. His achievements reflect not only his dedication but also the enduring spirit among drivers who aspire to reach the highest levels of racing.
