It's safe to say that Team Penske has seen better days. And this after team member Josef Newgarden won the season-opening IndyCar race in St. Petersburg, Florida.
But the embarrassment comes after Newgarden was stripped of victory for manipulating his push-to-pass system. He was joined in ignominy by teammate Scott McLaughlin, while Will Power, though spared disqualification, incurred a significant point deduction.
The hefty penalties levied against the trio — a $25,000 fine per entry and forfeiture of all prize money — underscore the gravity of the transgressions. Roger Penske's candid admission of embarrassment in a text message to The Associated Press laid bare the severity of the situation.
"Very disappointing," Penske said in a text message to the AP. "I am embarrassed."
He wasn't alone.
"I've emulated Roger Penske for many years on and off the track, so today's news is quite a disappointment for me," rival team owner Chip Ganassi told the AP. "This is a blemish on his team, their organization, and the series. Very disappointing as a fellow owner and competitor in the series."
The repercussions rippled through the paddock, with rival team owner Chip Ganassi lamenting the stain on Penske's esteemed legacy and the broader implications for the sport. His sentiments echo a collective disappointment resonating within the racing community, underscoring the imperative of upholding integrity and fair competition.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the stringent standards governing elite motorsports, reaffirming the IndyCar Series' unwavering commitment to enforcing regulations impartially. As Team Penske navigates the aftermath, all eyes remain fixed on their response, emblematic of the scrutiny and expectations that accompany their position atop the racing hierarchy.
Newgarden, by the way, is the reigning Indianapolis 500 champion.
