Andretti, Armstrong, VeeKay Qualify for Indianapolis 500, Abel Misses Final Spot

In the last-chance qualifying session for the 109th Indianapolis 500, Marco Andretti, Marcus Armstrong, and Rinus VeeKay secured the final spots on the 33-car grid, while rookie Jacob Abel failed to qualify. Andretti posted the fastest average speed of 229.741 mph, with Armstrong close behind, but both Dale Coyne Racing teammates, Abel and VeeKay, struggled with slower speeds in the 227 mph range. VeeKay initially secured the final spot but controversially withdrew his time to attempt a faster run, which resulted in an even slower speed, leaving him vulnerable to Abel's final attempt. However, Abel's last run was slower than VeeKay's, relegating him from the race and marking a disappointing end to his rookie IndyCar season. Team owner Dale Coyne described the situation as akin to 'playing chess against yourself,' highlighting the difficult position of having two drivers competing for one spot. The race is set to take place on May 25, with Andretti, Armstrong, and VeeKay confirmed as starters.