Josef Newgarden led the pre qualifying practice this morning at the Milwaukee Mile with a lap of 161. 0066 mph. Only six cars posted speeds above 160 mph.

Newgarden will be 10th out for qualifying, which may not be ideal for winning the pole. Qualifying order is at the end of this post.

Louis Foster lost an engine after only three laps. He just received a nine grid spot penalty.

Three caution periods for a total of more than 30 minutes caused IndyCar to extend the session so cars got the full time in.

Next up is qualifying at 1 pm Central on FS1.

Notes

The track has improved some things from 2024. The pit/paddock pass redemption area is much more efficient. Last year the line started on the tunnel walkway and clogged traffic. Two booths and a cordoned line off the tunnel exit has allowed traffic to move smoothly and the lines move much quicker.

Grandstand entrances seem better organized as well with covered entries to each section.

All the food stands and bars areopen, giving he midway the festival atmosphere that every race should have. The infrastructure helps create the environment.

Many fans are wearing throwback shirts. So far I have spotted a Jimmy Bryan shirt, one with a leader Cards logo, several Al Unser styles. The FOX pit reporters are all wearing throwback shirts as well. If ever a track screamed “Have a Throwback Race,” Milwaukee is it.

Results

Qualifying Order