The Indy 500 qualifying 2025 sessions are in full swing. Fans are watching closely to see who will make the final lineup for the 109th Indianapolis 500. Held at the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this year’s qualifying round is packed with action, surprises, and a few big names under pressure.
Let’s break down everything that happened on the track and what it means for the big race day on May 25, 2025.
What Is Indy 500 Qualifying?
Indy 500 qualifying 2025 decides which 33 drivers will take the green flag on race day. The process is simple: drivers run four-lap time trials. The fastest average speed decides their starting spot. The top 12 from Day 1 fight for the front of the grid on Day 2. The slowest drivers face “Last Chance Qualifying” to secure the final three spots.
Day 1 Results – May 17, 2025
The first day of Indy 500 qualifying 2025 delivered a mix of speed and drama. Alex Palou topped the charts with a stunning four-lap average of 233.019 mph. His speed secured a spot in the Top 12 and made him the early favorite for pole.
Top 5 Qualifiers from Day 1:
- Alex Palou – 233.019 mph
- Scott McLaughlin – 232.949 mph
- Josef Newgarden – 232.875 mph
- Pato O’Ward – 232.839 mph
- Scott Dixon – 232.711 mph
All 12 fastest drivers from Day 1 moved on to the next stage of qualifying. They will battle for the front four rows of the starting grid.
Kyle Larson Makes His Mark
NASCAR driver Kyle Larson made his Indy 500 qualifying debut this year. While he didn’t make the Top 12, he safely qualified in 21st place. That means we’ll see him on race day, which adds extra excitement for fans of both IndyCar and NASCAR.
Big Crash, Big Comeback
One of the most talked-about moments from Indy 500 qualifying 2025 came from Colton Herta. During an early run, he lost control and flipped his car upside down. Thankfully, he was unhurt. Even more impressive, he returned just hours later to complete a clean qualifying run. His quick comeback showed real grit.
Trouble for Marco Andretti
Veteran driver Marco Andretti is facing trouble. He failed to secure a solid time on Day 1. Now, he’ll need to fight for a spot during the Last Chance Qualifying round. If he doesn’t improve, he could miss the race entirely. That would be a huge blow for the Andretti family, who have deep roots in the Indy 500.
Hybrid Engines Debut in 2025
The Indy 500 qualifying 2025 is historic for one big reason. This is the first year that IndyCar is using hybrid engines. These new powertrains combine a traditional engine with electric power. The goal is better fuel use and a slight power boost. Fans were curious to see how teams would handle the change. So far, the results are promising.
Sunday, May 18 – What’s Next?
Day 2 of Indy 500 qualifying 2025 is just as important. Here’s the schedule in Eastern Time:
- 1:00 PM – Practice for Top 12 qualifiers
- 2:00 PM – Practice for Last Chance drivers
- 4:00 PM – Top 12 Qualifying session
- 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM – Last Chance Qualifying session
During the Top 12 session, drivers will try for the pole position, which is the front spot on the grid. This spot offers clear air and a small edge at the start of the race.
In the Last Chance Qualifying, four drivers will battle for just three open spots. One will be bumped out and miss the race. The pressure is real.
Last Chance Qualifying – Who’s At Risk?
Here are the four drivers who must fight for their spot:
- Marco Andretti
- Rinus VeeKay
- Jacob Abel
- Marcus Armstrong
Each of them gets one last run. The three fastest will make the 33-car field. The slowest will go home. This makes for one of the tensest moments in all of motorsports.
Where to Watch Indy 500 Qualifying 2025
You can catch all the qualifying action on these platforms:
- TV: FOX
- Streaming: FOX Sports App
- Radio: INDYCAR Radio Network
Fans across the U.S. are tuning in as the drama unfolds. The full broadcast includes in-car cams, live speed updates, and team audio.
Looking Ahead to Race Day – May 25, 2025
Once Indy 500 qualifying 2025 wraps up, the full grid will be set. Here’s what’s at stake on race day:
- Josef Newgarden is the two-time defending champion. He’s aiming for a third straight win.
- Hélio Castroneves returns for his 25th start, hoping for a record-breaking fifth win.
- The hybrid system could shake up race strategy for everyone.
- Team Penske and Chip Ganassi Racing seem strong again this year.
The final race happens on Sunday, May 25, with pre-race events starting early in the morning. The green flag is expected in the early afternoon.
Why This Year’s Qualifying Matters
Every Indy 500 qualifying session is important. But Indy 500 qualifying 2025 feels different. It’s the start of a new chapter for the sport. Hybrid engines, tight competition, and rising stars are shaping the future.
Fans want speed. They want surprises. And this year, they’re getting both.
From Palou’s blazing lap to Herta’s wild crash and comeback, the road to the Indy 500 is already thrilling. The full story isn’t over yet. Sunday’s sessions will decide who starts where—and who doesn’t start at all.
Final Thoughts
Indy 500 qualifying 2025 is setting up what could be one of the most exciting races in recent years. The front row is still up for grabs. Big names could miss the cut. And the switch to hybrid power adds a new twist.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or watching for the first time, now’s the time to tune in. The Indy 500 is more than a race. It’s a tradition. And qualifying is where legends begin.
