Indy 500 Day 1 Qualifying Live Updates, Results, and Provisional Starting Grid on May 17, 2025

Source: IndyStar

Indy 500 Qualifying Overview

The 2025 Indianapolis 500 kicked off with Day 1 of qualifying on May 17, featuring an intense lineup of thirty-four drivers competing on the iconic 2.5-mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After nearly seven hours of qualifying runs, positions from 13 to 30 for the May 25 race have been determined, while the top 12 positions and the back of the grid will be finalized on Sunday. Notable moments from Saturday’s qualifying included several crashes, including serious incidents involving Marcus Armstrong and Colton Herta.

Crash Incidents and Their Impact

In the opening hours of the qualifying session, Marcus Armstrong faced a harrowing moment after crashing during morning practice and subsequently being taken to the infield care center. Although cleared from the facility, uncertainty loomed over his ability to drive, as his team had to prepare a new car for qualifying. Fortunately, Armstrong was able to participate later in the day.

Colton Herta, another prominent driver, had his own set of challenges when he crashed in Turn 1 during his initial qualifying attempt. Despite the collision, Herta later expressed that he was “not nervous” and would approach the subsequent qualifying rounds with confidence.

Qualifying Results and Noteworthy Performances

The following drivers achieved noteworthy times during the qualifying session:

• Alex Palou: Continues his strong performance, clocking in as the fastest qualifier.
• Scott Dixon: A consistent presence, improving his previous qualifying runs.
• Josef Newgarden: The two-time defending champion remains a formidable force in this year’s lineup.

As the session wrapped up, the provisional starting grid began to take shape. Here is a brief look at the top qualifiers and their positions:

• 1: Alex Palou
• 2: Scott McLaughlin
• 3: Josef Newgarden
• 4: Pato O’Ward
• 5: Scott Dixon

Upcoming Qualifying Rounds

Day 2 of qualifying will be critical in determining the final grid. The fastest twelve drivers from Saturday will compete for pole position, while the slowest four will battle for three positions on Row 11. Drivers are eager to secure their spots for the grand event on May 25, as the competition heats up with the introduction of hybrid engines this year, affecting the strategies teams implement during their qualifying runs.

Weather and Track Conditions

On the day of qualifying, the weather proved to be favorable, with temperatures reaching a high of 70 degrees. The mostly sunny skies and consistent winds presented optimum conditions for the drivers to showcase their skills. Track temperatures remained in the 108-degree range, which also played a part in the drivers’ calculated strategies as they prepared for their runs.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

As the excitement builds for the Indy 500, fans eagerly anticipate the outcomes of Day 2 of qualifying, with all eyes on the top drivers as they make their bid for the ultimate glory at one of motorsport’s most prestigious events. Stay tuned for live updates as the action unfolds on May 18.

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Indy 500, Marcus Armstrong, Colton Herta, Alex Palou, Scott Dixon, qualifying results, motorsport news, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, hybrid engines, racing updates