Transitioning from one motorsport discipline to another is never an easy feat. Just ask Team Penske’s two-time IndyCar champion, Josef Newgarden, who recently made his top-class debut in the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). As he took on the challenge of competing in IMSA, Newgarden discovered the stark differences between driving an IndyCar and piloting the factory Porsche entry in IMSA. In this article, we will explore Newgarden’s insights into the technical and procedural disparities, the demand for respect and balance, and the exhilarating aspects of multi-class racing.
Unlike IndyCar, which is more mechanical in nature with minimal on-the-fly system changes, IMSA cars are highly technologically advanced. Newgarden noted the significant difference in driving experience, stating, “It’s all pretty challenging compared to where I’ve come from. This car is very technologically advanced.” With such sophistication comes the need for drivers to learn and adapt swiftly to the various systems and potential requests from the team at any given time. This technical learning curve certainly posed a significant challenge for Newgarden.
One of the critical aspects Newgarden had to grasp was the level of respect required for the IMSA car’s limit. In comparison to an IndyCar, the IMSA car demands a more cautious approach. Newgarden explained, “In this car, you have to respect the limit more than an IndyCar. An IndyCar allows you to attack constantly at 100%, with minimal loss. If I overdrive a corner [in IndyCar] I can maybe lose a tenth. In this car, I can lose half a second.” This demand for respect arises from the increased capability and the higher risk of overstepping the car’s limits. It took Newgarden time to find the right balance, understanding the fine line between pushing the car to its maximum potential and avoiding costly mistakes.
Another significant aspect Newgarden had to adapt to was the procedural differences between IndyCar and IMSA. From potential red lights at pit exits to other nuanced procedural variations, Newgarden emphasized the importance of getting these details right. It required a shift in focus and meticulous attention to these differences. These procedural disparities added an additional layer of complexity to Newgarden’s overall learning process.
Despite the numerous challenges and adjustments, Newgarden found great enjoyment in the multi-class racing aspect of IMSA competition. He described it as “fun” and “totally different” from what he was used to in IndyCar. The diverse paces among the different classes and the sheer concentration of cars on the track made the racing experience highly demanding and exciting. With over 50 cars on the two and a half mile track at Road Atlanta, Newgarden relished the unique demands and the heightened level of competition.
Transitioning from IndyCar to IMSA posed a myriad of challenges for Josef Newgarden. From adapting to the technological complexities to respecting the limit and finding the right balance, every aspect of his driving style had to be adjusted. Furthermore, the procedural differences added an additional layer of intricacy to the transition process. However, amidst these challenges, Newgarden found solace in the exhilarating world of multi-class racing. While the journey from one motorsport discipline to another may be arduous, it is the passion for the sport and the desire for personal growth that ultimately drives drivers like Newgarden to conquer new frontiers.
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