While the other former Formula 1 driver in the paddock left his team recovering from a crash, Indy 500 rookie Alexander Rossi led the way in an abbreviated Saturday practice session at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Rossi’s 231.249mph circuit served as the fastest lap of the rain-delayed session, with Andretti Autosport teammate Ryan Hunter-Reay slotting in behind him in second.
The leading Chevrolet in the session was Chip Ganassi Racing’s Tony Kanaan, who set the third quickest lap overall, as well as the fastest speed without tow (230.360 mph). Team Penske teammates Helio Castroneves and Will Power rounded out the top five.
Only 21 cars out of the 33-car grid took advantage of the session, which served as a final shakedown before qualifying at 2:15 p.m. ET. The practice session was postponed for over three hours courtesy of heavy morning rain in the Indianapolis area.
CGR’s Max Chilton didn’t fare as well as his fellow rookie, crashing into the Turn 2 wall early in the session.
Aaron Bearden is a Frontstretch alumnus who’s come back home as the site’s Short Track Editor. When he isn’t working with our grassroots writers, he can be found talking about racing on his Morning Warmup newsletter, pestering his wife/dog or convincing himself the Indiana Pacers can win an NBA title.