A massive IndyCar shock has uprooted Andretti and Callum Ilott’s Indy 500 results as the feel good story for PREMA his worn off. Yet another technical infringement has hit the grid of the 109th running of the 500. Once again notable names will be removed from the standings.
Who’s involved?
The most important grid change involves winner of the 2022 edition of the 500 Marcus Ericsson. The Swede had managed another impressive performance at the IMS to secure P2, his first seasonal podium with Andretti. His teammate, and only race winner of the 2025 season apart from championship leader Alex Palou, Kyle Kirkwood is involved as well. The Floridian will be removed from P6.
Finally, another driver who had had an impressive day at the office with a strong drive but that will miss out on all the points scored was Prema’s Callum Ilott. The former Juncos driver had snatched a P12 for the Italian team in its first ever Indy 500. After the heights of Qualifying the 300 laps long race completely turns into a nightmare. In fact, Prema’s Sunday had begun to be more negative following the pitlane crash and retirement of pole sitter Shwartzman.
What happened?
The two Andretti cars were found to be employing a modified Energy Management System cover. The part is generally Dallara-supplied and should be used as given by the manufacturer. In addition, on the 27 and 28 cars were found spacers and not allowed components.
On the other side of the pitlane, car no. 90 had failed the front wing assembly post-race inspection. The minimum endplate height was not met, and had shifted to a non lecit position.
For both Andretti team cars involved, as well as for Ilott, the entries have been disqualified from the complete Indy 500 results. Points and money prizes have been revoked, with an additional 100000$ fine to be paid by each car. Another consequence of the failure to meet the needed standards and be in compliance with the rules will be the suspension of the team and competition managers for the three entries, which will be served in the upcoming Detroit GP.
How did they react?
First reactions of the teams have been issued via social medias. Andretti IndyCar has issued a statement taking notice of the issued penalisation, and affirming that they will call for a thorough revision of the situation with IndyCar.
Prema has instead opted for acceptance of the punishment, with the latest team to join IndyCar also acknowledging the fact that the wing had been an original part and had previously passed tech inspections.
