Newgarden: Focus on Normal Program Runs
Josef Newgarden, the reigning IndyCar champion, is shifting his focus to consistency and normal program runs in the 2023 season. While he's not entirely abandoning the pursuit of wins, Newgarden recognizes the importance of a steady, reliable performance throughout the season.
"Our main focus is to be consistent and have normal program runs," stated Newgarden in a recent interview. "We want to get into a rhythm, make sure our car is consistently fast, and not have too many hiccups."
This strategic shift comes after a challenging 2022 season for Team Penske, where mechanical issues and incidents plagued their performance. Though Newgarden managed to secure the championship, the road was anything but smooth.
"Last year was definitely an uphill battle," admitted Newgarden. "We had some setbacks that we couldn't control, but we learned from them."
This newfound emphasis on consistency aims to solidify Team Penske's position as a championship contender. Newgarden is aware that winning races is crucial, but consistent points accumulation can ultimately be the deciding factor in the championship race.
"Wins are great, but they don't guarantee the championship," said Newgarden. "We need to be strong in every race, even if we don't win. We need to be in the mix, fighting for points."
Newgarden's approach reflects a change in mindset for the team. While the desire to win remains strong, the priority now lies in delivering solid, reliable performances week after week. This shift emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded strategy that emphasizes both speed and consistency.
The team is actively working on improving car setup and reliability to ensure a more stable performance. Newgarden's confidence in his team is evident in his optimistic outlook for the season.
"I believe we have the tools and the team to do this," Newgarden concluded. "We're ready to go out there and prove ourselves."
The 2023 IndyCar season is set to be an exciting one, with Newgarden aiming to defend his championship title with a focus on consistency and solid performances. Whether his strategy will lead him to another championship victory remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Newgarden and Team Penske are determined to be in the fight throughout the entire season.
