Pato O’Ward has been left perplexed after qualifying 10th for the XPEL Grand Prix of IndyCar at Road America, with a time of 1’44.4003 around the 4.014-mile circuit. The Mexican, currently fifth in the IndyCar Series championship, had shown faster times during earlier practice sessions.
In qualifying, O’Ward set a time of 1’44.0029 in the second practice, being the only driver to use soft compound tires at that time. However, this pace did not translate to qualifying, creating confusion over tire performance.
Speaking with FOX Sports, O’Ward pointed out that the decision to use alternative tires during practice helped improve his car’s balance, but he was surprised by the subsequent qualifying performance. “The tires have been so inconsistent from one set to another, as if the car had changed completely with just two sets of soft tires. There have been drivers like Alex Palou who also lost significant time during the different qualifying sessions,” he commented.
Despite the difficulties in qualifying, O’Ward maintains an optimistic attitude heading into the 55-lap race. He has achieved two podiums in his previous eight races at Road America, and hopes to make the most of the situation. “Even if qualifying didn’t go as we wanted, we are ready for the race and will work to move forward as much as possible.”
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
