LEXINGTON, Ohio — Pato O’Ward secured an IndyCar victory on Sunday with the new hybrid engine, a win he had anticipated with confidence.
This combination allowed him to close the gap on Alex Palou and capitalize on a small opportunity.
O’Ward took the lead with 24 laps left as Palou faced issues in the pits and went on to win the Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in the first official appearance of the hybrid engine in the IndyCar series.
This victory was a major redemption for O’Ward, especially after the heartbreak of losing the Indianapolis 500 in May. It was his second win of the season but the first legitimate on-track win after his victory in the season opener in St. Petersburg, Florida, due to Newgarden’s disqualification.
People are also reading…
O’Ward’s victory was well-deserved, considering the challenges he faced, especially after the disappointment at Indy.
“We really pushed today,” said O’Ward, reflecting on his race. “As soon as we got the right tires on, I knew it was my chance to close the gap and take the win. It feels great to earn this victory.”
Palou led most of the race but O’Ward seized the opportunity when Palou experienced a pit stop issue, allowing him to take the lead and maintain it till the end.
O’Ward faced some challenges towards the finish line but managed to secure the victory by a small margin, marking his first on-track win since July 2022.
Palou extended his lead in the IndyCar points standings, while O’Ward climbed to third place after this win.
The debut of the hybrid engine in the race was a significant point of focus, with IndyCar showing excitement for its potential and looking forward to further development and testing in future races.
The next race for IndyCar is scheduled for July 14 at Newton, Iowa.
