Race Weekend Central

Josef Newgarden Airlifted to Hospital from Iowa Speedway

Josef Newgarden has been airlifted from Iowa Speedway after losing consciousness following the conclusion of Sunday’s (June 24) Hy-Vee Salute to Farmers 300.

Associated Press reporter Jenna Fryer tweeted fans reported seeing Newgarden faint after the NTT IndyCar Series race, allegedly hitting his head after collapsing.

According to Dr. Geoffrrey Billows, Newgarden suffered an “abrasion” to his forehead and is being taken to Des Moines for “more advanced imaging.”

Newgarden was flown from the track in Newton via ambulance to Des Moines rather than driven due to distance and post-race traffic.

NBC reporter Nate Ryan shared a similar account from Dr. Billows.

IndyCar later released a statement confirming that Newgarden is awake and alert, noting that the driver was taken to Des Moines for further evaluation.

After winning the first race of the weekend doubleheader at Iowa, while leading Sunday’s race, Newgarden crashed out late in the race.

See also
Mechanical Failure Denies Josef Newgarden Shot at Iowa Sweep

Newgarden appeared aware and alert following the crash, exiting his car under his own power and speaking with NBC’s Dave Burns after leaving the infield care center. Newgarden’s car was substantially damaged after backing into Iowa’s turn 4 barrier at around 130 mph.

Team Penske posted an update on Twitter late Sunday night:

This is an ongoing development and will be updated as more information becomes available.

About the author

Alex is the IndyCar Editor at Frontstretch, having initially joined as an entry-level contributor in 2021. He also leads the Center for Asia-Pacific Policy at the BIED Society, an international think tank in Washington, D.C. With previous experience in China, Japan and Poland, Alex is particularly passionate about the international realm of motorsport and the politics that make the wheels turn - literally - behind the scenes.

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TiminPayson

Head injuries are so scary

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