David Malukas finds peace in qualifying at World Wide Technology Raceway

It’s a funny thing, racing. Last month at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, second place felt like a disaster for David Malukas. But here at World Wide Technology Raceway, lining up alongside pole-sitter Alex Palou for Sunday’s Bommarito Automotive Group 500, the mood is completely different. Malukas knew the deal as he waited in the qualifying line: the track temperature was shifting, and the later you ran, the faster the machine would fly. He was right, and while being edged by a four-time series champion like Palou stings, Malukas is feeling "very fortunate" with his front-row start.

Palou’s pole is a fascinating contrast to his own history. The driver of the No. 10 HRC Chip Ganassi Racing Honda has been remarkably honest about this venue, calling it "probably my worst" track and joking that he lacks the talent to run up front here. Yet, he pulled it off, aided by the fact that Chip Ganassi Racing was the only squad to run a full team test here before the weekend. Meanwhile, Christian Lundgaard topped final practice in the No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, while Scott McLaughlin is turning heads with a stunning red-and-white livery on his car, honoring the 2009 Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves.