Denny Hamlin criticizes Team Penske after Indy 500 scandal, following the recent controversy where Team Penske faced major penalties for illegal car parts during the Indianapolis 500. The events unfolded as Josef Newgarden and Will Power were pushed to the back of the field, and top team members, including president Tim Cindric, were dismissed soon after.
Illegal Parts Scandal and Team Penske’s Tough Consequences
Team Penske, with its rich racing legacy, found itself at the center of the Indy 500 drama when illegal modifications to their cars surfaced. Investigations revealed unauthorized parts, resulting in strict penalties that forced Newgarden and Power, both key drivers, to start the race from the rear of the grid. The reaction from the officials was swift, leading to the removal of three significant figures within Penske’s IndyCar operations, among them Tim Cindric, whose leadership was called into question.
The fallout reached into other racing circles, given that Tim Cindric is also the father of NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Cindric. The high-profile dismissals signaled the severity of the situation and Team Penske’s determination to restore its reputation following the cheating scandal.
Hamlin Weighs In Amid Increased Indy 500 Drama
On his Actions Detrimental podcast, Denny Hamlin discussed the intensified emotions and unpredictability at this year’s Indy 500, reflecting on the impact both on competitors and viewers. He pointed specifically to the heightened risk factors, referencing Kyle Larson’s major wreck during practice, and shared his dual perspective as someone both invested in and affected by the sport.
Hamlin observed how the rules breach and subsequent incidents brought more attention to the spectacle, increasing the stakes and viewer interest. He explained that the suspense surrounding racing on the edge and the risks involved made this year’s event especially compelling to watch.
He stated,
“From a spectator’s point of view…I don’t want anyone to get hurt, for sure, I’m in the business so I understand,”
adding that the increased risk factors had drawn in viewers who were unsure what would happen next.
“But it’s made it more compelling to watch for me because I know that the cars are on edge more. You don’t know what you’re gonna see, is the person, are they gonna have to lift or not?”
Hamlin also noted the strategic challenge teams faced, especially as it related to how far they were willing to push their vehicles’ setups. He commented,
“I think, when it’s an easy wide open [throttle] and it’s just all about, you know, how slick can your team make your car…If you’re part of the Penske team it appears you’ve made your car a little too slick…it’s compelling from that standpoint.”
And then obviously, we had an upset. New team, new driver on ovals winning the poll for the Indy 500, right? Good compelling stories.
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
What the Cheating Scandal Means for IndyCar and NASCAR
The repercussions of the Indy 500 incident reach beyond just Team Penske, prompting renewed scrutiny on compliance and fair play in motorsports. Both established and emerging drivers, including those connected to the NASCAR Cup Series like Kyle Larson, now face heightened regulations and enforcement as the sport seeks to retain integrity.
With key personnel changes and public commentary from figures such as Denny Hamlin, the controversy will likely shape team strategies and fan perceptions for upcoming races. Attention now turns to how organizations like Penske adapt, and whether further measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future, keeping the competitive spirit alive while upholding high standards across both IndyCar and NASCAR events.
