O’Ward Claims First Pole Position Since 2022 at Thermal Club
Pato O’Ward secured a significant victory for Arrow McLaren by capturing the NTT P1 Award at The Thermal Club, marking his first pole position since 2022. The No. 5 driver demonstrated exceptional skill and precision during the qualifying session, showcasing Arrow McLaren’s competitive edge early in the season.
Qualifying Highlights
O’Ward’s performance stands out as a critical achievement for both driver and team, representing a return to pole position form after a notable gap. His commanding lap time earned him the coveted P1 start position, demonstrating the potential of the Arrow McLaren package at The Thermal Club circuit.
Current Championship Contenders
The 2024 INDYCAR field features several notable champions:
- Alex Palou (Three-time and current series champion)
- Will Power (Two-time series champion)
- Scott Dixon (Six-time series champion)
- Josef Newgarden (Two-time series champion and current Indianapolis 500 winner)
Series Overview
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES represents the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in North America, featuring an international roster of versatile drivers competing across various track formats.
The series encompasses multiple racing environments:
- Superspeedways
- Short ovals
- Street circuits
- Permanent road courses
Broadcasting Development
A significant change is coming to INDYCAR’s media presence:
| Year | Broadcast Partner | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | FOX Sports | Exclusive U.S. television rights |
| 2025 | FOX | All races live, including Indy 500 |
Indianapolis 500 Milestone
The 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 will mark a historic moment as it transitions to FOX’s broadcasting platform, continuing the legacy of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."
The series’ move to FOX Sports in 2025 represents a new chapter in INDYCAR’s broadcasting history, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all races, with special emphasis on the prestigious Indianapolis 500.
Technical Excellence
O’Ward’s pole position performance in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren showcases the technical capabilities of both car and driver. The achievement at The Thermal Club demonstrates the team’s ability to optimize their package for qualifying conditions, suggesting strong potential for race performance.
