Josef Newgarden Vows to Secure Third IndyCar Championship in 2025—If the Playing Field Is Fair

Josef Newgarden has sent a bold message to the IndyCar world, declaring that he will win his third championship in 2025—on one condition. The Team Penske star insists that as long as no underhanded tactics come into play, he is fully capable of dominating the series once again.

The two-time IndyCar champion and reigning Indianapolis 500 winner has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind. In a recent statement, Newgarden hinted at what he perceives as “cheating” on the track, a comment that has already sparked major reactions across the motorsport community.

A Champion’s Confidence

Newgarden’s track record speaks for itself. With two IndyCar titles (2017 and 2019) and 30 career wins, the 33-year-old driver has consistently proven himself as one of the best in the sport. In 2023, he solidified his status among the greats by finally conquering the Indianapolis 500—a victory that had eluded him for years.

However, despite his success, Newgarden has also endured heartbreaks, near-misses, and moments of controversy. His 2024 campaign was particularly frustrating, as he found himself just short of championship glory due to a mix of on-track incidents and strategic misfortunes. Now, as he looks ahead to 2025, he is making it clear: if everything is fair, he is the driver to beat.

Newgarden’s Strong Words on “Cheating”

Newgarden’s statement about “cheating” has raised eyebrows. While he did not explicitly call out any team or driver, his words suggest that he believes certain factors have impacted his ability to win in the past.

“In a fair fight, I know I’m the best driver on the grid,” Newgarden reportedly said. “If no one cheats, I will win the 2025 championship. It’s as simple as that.”

His comments immediately fueled speculation about what—or who—he was referring to. Some fans and analysts believe he was hinting at questionable tactics used by rival teams, while others think he was addressing controversial race steward decisions.

The Ongoing Debate Over Fair Play in IndyCar

IndyCar has had its fair share of disputes over fairness in recent years. From alleged team orders to controversial penalties, debates over race integrity have become a hot topic. Newgarden’s statement only adds more fuel to the fire, prompting discussions about transparency and officiating within the series.

Some experts argue that the American open-wheel racing series has one of the most balanced playing fields in motorsport, with spec chassis and engines designed to promote equal competition. Others, however, believe that certain teams and drivers may gain an edge through strategic loopholes.

Regardless of the debate, Newgarden is making it clear that he will not tolerate anything less than a level playing field.

Can Newgarden Deliver in 2025?

Whether or not Newgarden’s claims of unfair play hold weight, one thing is certain—he is hungry for another championship. With Team Penske’s resources, his personal skillset, and the motivation of past frustrations, he will undoubtedly be a major title contender in 2025.

His biggest challengers will likely include reigning champion Álex Palou, Pato O’Ward, and Scott Dixon, all of whom have proven to be formidable opponents. However, if Newgarden can consistently execute at the highest level and avoid the setbacks that plagued him in previous seasons, he has every reason to believe a third title is within reach.

As the 2025 IndyCar season approaches, all eyes will be on Newgarden to see if he can back up his bold words with championship-winning performances. One thing is for sure—he’s ready for battle, and he’s not holding back.

Final Thoughts

Newgarden’s confidence and direct approach have always made him one of the most intriguing figures in IndyCar. His recent statement ensures that the upcoming season will be filled with drama, rivalries, and must-watch moments.

Will he prove himself right and capture his third championship? Or will his claims of unfairness become an ongoing controversy? The 2025 IndyCar season can’t come soon enough.