Qualifying Rounds for the Indianapolis 500

Qualifying rounds for the 109th Indianapolis 500 are currently in progress.

However, following a terrifying crash during Saturday’s qualifying, one of the favorites might end up in a less favorable position, pending full qualification.

Colton Herta, driving the No. 26 Andretti Global Honda, started his four-lap qualifying attempt when he lost control coming out of turn 1. He crashed into the outer wall, flipped over, and ended up against the barrier.

Here’s a glimpse of Herta’s crash:

Luckily, the driver managed to get out of his car and walked to a waiting vehicle that took him to the care center, where he was later cleared for participation.

This incident reminded many of another serious crash involving Marcus Armstrong from the No. 66 Meyer Shank Racing Honda.

Armstrong was stretchered off to the care center and was released about an hour later. “He’s awake. He’s alert. He’s doing well,” noted Dr. Julia Weiser, the medical director of IndyCar and Speedway, after Armstrong was discharged. With this crash, Armstrong’s car will be withdrawn from a guaranteed qualifying spot, forcing his team to eye a chance during Sunday’s last chance qualifying session.

Herta was also cleared and spoke to the media shortly after the incident.

The full-field qualifiers for the 2025 Indianapolis 500 continued today at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, featuring 30 cars. The positions from 13 to 30 will be determined today, with the final three spots available during tomorrow’s last chance qualifying session.

Moreover, the top 12 spots will also be finalized on Sunday, starting with the top 12 qualifying runs, culminating in the Firestone Fast Six.