P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The NTT IndyCar Series held the first of two open test days at Phoenix Raceway on Tuesday. After one hour of dedicated rookie running and four hours of open track time, David Malukas was the driver at the top of the timesheets. Malukas, who is taking over the #12 Team Penske entry this season, logged […]
The NTT IndyCar Series conducted the first of two open test days at Phoenix Raceway on Tuesday, with David Malukas claiming the top spot on the timesheets after the extensive track time.
Malukas, now at the helm of the #12 Team Penske entry, set the pace with a lap of 20.8569 seconds at an average speed of 172.605 MPH.
The 24-year-old Malukas drew parallels between Phoenix Raceway and World Wide Technology Raceway, where he has clinched two podium finishes in the past four years.
His new Team Penske teammate Josef Newgarden and Will Power, now with Andretti Global, followed closely behind in second and third, respectively.
Smooth track conditions and high speeds exceeded the drivers’ expectations, prompting aggressive cornering to match each other’s pace on the circuit.
The day concluded with a total of 25 drivers maximizing their track time, with Christian Rasmussen notably completing 128 laps in his #21 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevy.
Highlights included Will Power displaying his new livery and one minor incident with rookie Caio Collet brushing the wall, while all eyes are now on the upcoming second test day as the anticipation builds for the 2026 season opener in St. Petersburg.
