O'Ward sets fastest time on first day of testing at Sebring

On February 17, 2025, during the first day of the group tests at Sebring International Raceway, Pato O'Ward posted the fastest overall time. Behind the wheel of his No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, he clocked 52.3470 seconds during the morning session on the 1.67-mile short course.

"It's the best job in the world. I'm excited to come back to Sebring and work with the engineers. It's always a pleasure to be here," said O'Ward about his return to the track.

Marcus Armstrong in second place

Marcus Armstrong, driving the No. 60 SiriusXM Honda for Meyer Shank Racing, finished second with a time of 52.3675 seconds in the afternoon session. The absence of his teammate, Felix Rosenqvist, due to a fever, did not prevent Armstrong from maintaining a strong performance.

"We tried to limit the car's use to save tires for Felix, but I feel good. I don't feel tired after so many laps," Armstrong commented after the session.

Balanced conditions throughout the day

Throughout the tests, the track and weather conditions were similar in both sessions. Three of the top five times were recorded in the morning, while the other two came in the afternoon.

Alex Palou, the current series champion, finished third with 52.4948 seconds. Conor Daly, who participated in the afternoon session, ended up in fourth place with 52.5931 seconds in his Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet.

Performance of Arrow McLaren and Juncos Hollinger Racing

Arrow McLaren had consistent performance, with Christian Lundgaard in fifth place with a time of 52.6626 seconds. Lundgaard, who joined the team after three years with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, helped his team place two cars in the top five.

Juncos Hollinger Racing also showed competitiveness, with Sting Ray Robb in sixth place with 52.7761 seconds in the morning session. Robb joined Juncos Hollinger after a year with AJ Foyt Racing.

Incidents and mechanical problems

During the day, Nolan Siegel had an incident when he hit a barrier at the exit of Turn 7 with his No. 6 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. Although the driver was unharmed, the car suffered moderate damage to the right side and rear.

On the other hand, Scott Dixon, who has won six championships in the series, only completed two laps in the afternoon due to a mechanical issue with his No. 9 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.

Start of the 2025 IndyCar season

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES will officially begin on March 2 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The 2025 season is expected to be highly competitive, with teams and drivers continuing to prepare for what lies ahead.