Scott McLaughlin took advantage of IndyCar’s off week after an intense July schedule, visiting Hersheypark in Pennsylvania just days before the Grand Prix of Portland. The Team Penske driver, known for racing under the spotlight, used the break to recharge amid a challenging 2025 season.
McLaughlin’s 2025 campaign in IndyCar has fallen short of expectations. Initially considered a strong contender to challenge reigning champion Alex Palou, the four-time Supercars champion has struggled to convert opportunities into results during the season.
Challenging Season Highlights and Setbacks for McLaughlin
At 32 years old, McLaughlin showed promise early on by securing pole position at the season opener in St. Petersburg, although a caution early in the race halted his chances of clinching victory. His only podium finish so far was a third-place at the Grand Prix of Alabama, the fourth race in the 17-event series.
Following that, the driver’s performance declined. July proved particularly difficult, with a 23rd place finish at Mid-Ohio and a remarkable recovery from 27th to 4th in Iowa Race 1. Unfortunately, the momentum faded with two consecutive DNFs at Iowa Race 2 and the Indy Toronto event. A partial rebound came with a 10th place at Laguna Seca, but the results remain inconsistent.
During his break, McLaughlin visited Hersheypark alongside his wife, Karly Paone, and their daughter Lucy, providing a rare family moment away from racing pressures. McLaughlin and Karly, who married in California in 2019, welcomed Lucy last October.
Looking Ahead: Grand Prix of Portland Offers Hope for Turnaround
With the latter part of the 2025 season approaching, all eyes are on the upcoming Grand Prix of Portland from August 8 to 10. McLaughlin’s record at Portland International Raceway has been solid since joining IndyCar in 2021, boasting a top-10 finish in all four starts and a victory in 2022. This race represents an opportunity for McLaughlin to regain form and push his championship hopes forward.
McLaughlin’s Response to FOX’s Stake in IndyCar
Recently, McLaughlin reacted positively to broadcasting partner FOX acquiring a 33% share in Penske Entertainment, which owns IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The $135 million investment highlights FOX’s commitment to the series amid rising viewership in 2025. Roger Penske hailed the deal as an obvious choice for growth.
“Excited to be apart of this future moving forward!” —Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske driver
The Grand Prix of Portland will mark the first IndyCar race broadcast under FOX’s partial ownership, with McLaughlin and the series anticipating the next phase of growth and competition.
