Josef Newgarden Cleared to Race in Saturday’s Gallagher GP

INDIANAPOLIS — After a speculation-filled week following a crash at Iowa Speedway, Josef Newgarden has obtained medical clearance by IndyCar medical staff to resume all racing activities.

Newgarden was leading the most recent IndyCar Series race at Iowa Speedway when a suspension failure led to an accident exiting Turn 4 of the .894 mile oval.

After being checked and released from the medical center, Newgarden gave a TV interview. After the race, the Tennessee native sustained a fall in the motor coach lot, cutting the back of his head.

The two-time IndyCar Series champion was flown by helicopter to a Des Moines hospital for observation as it was the fastest way to get to the hospital due to post-race traffic. Team Penske announced that Santino Ferrucci would be on standby should Newgarden not be medically cleared after a Thursday evaluation.

The 2011 Indy Lights champion cleared Thursday’s evaluation, and following Friday’s morning practice obtained the final medical clearance to qualify and race in Saturday’s Gallagher Grand Prix.

Newgarden was second fastest in the first practice session for Saturday’s Gallagher Grand Prix, going around the 14-turn, 2.439 mile road course in 1 minute, 10.1121 seconds, averaging 125.234 mph. Alexander Rossi was fastest by .0202 seconds.