Josef Newgarden Pato O'Ward final lap Indy 500 finish recap

Newgarden passes O'Ward on final lap to win second consecutive Indy 500, praising O'Ward as a champion competitor. O'Ward congratulates Newgarden.

The 108th Indianapolis 500 came down to a thrilling battle between Josef Newgarden and Pato O'Ward. These two drivers exchanged the lead four times in the final six laps, with Newgarden's Team Penske Chevrolet ultimately passing O'Ward's Arrow McLaren Chevrolet in Turn 3 of the 200th and final lap to secure the victory. This win marked Newgarden's second consecutive victory at the Indy 500, while O'Ward finished in second place for the second time in three years.

Newgarden has now won six IndyCar races where O'Ward finished second, compared to only two instances the other way around. The intense finish of the race left fans on the edge of their seats, witnessing one of the most exciting conclusions in Indy 500 history.

In the aftermath of the race, both Newgarden and O'Ward had high praise for each other. Newgarden commended O'Ward's clean and competitive racing style, acknowledging that the final lap pass wouldn't have been possible without a skilled competitor like O'Ward. He expressed his gratitude for O'Ward's sportsmanship and recognized him as a true champion deserving of the win.

O'Ward, on the other hand, recognized Newgarden as a formidable competitor and a star of the series. Despite falling just short of the victory, O'Ward appreciated the opportunity to race against someone he trusts and respects. He acknowledged Newgarden's talent and the strength of his team, emphasizing the privilege it was to challenge them and push them to their limits.

The mutual respect and admiration between Newgarden and O'Ward were evident in their post-race comments, showcasing the sportsmanship and camaraderie that exists within the IndyCar racing community. As fans look back on this unforgettable race, they can appreciate the competitive spirit and skill displayed by these two exceptional drivers.