Newgarden is a rising star in IndyCar after winning four races and the series championship last yearGetty Images
The Verizon IndyCar Series is "rolling out an under-30 class of drivers," and it will need "at least a few of them to emerge not only as race winners, but also exciting TV performers, media charmers, ticket-sellers, and effective salesman," according to Michael Knight of the ARIZONA REPUBLIC. The transition is similar to what is being seen on the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, but where NASCAR is "heavy promoting" its young stars, IndyCar "appears to be laps behind." IndyCar CEO Mark Miles said, "We're making progress and this could be a real breakout year for the next generation. They've arrived as drivers and begin to get to the next level for notoriety." Knight noted one of the series' rising stars is Josef Newgarden, who last year had "four victories and the championship." Team Owner Roger Penske, for whom Newgarden races, said, "We have to promote people who can make a difference. It’s going to take time to build these names. The Andretti name didn’t happen overnight. To me, it's going to have to be someone who stands out." Newgarden agrees that IndyCar "needs to 'create stars.'" Newgarden: "I'm never shy to help out. NASCAR is pushing their new generation and ... we're going through a very similar transition." IndyCar driver Graham Rahal said, "The sport needs to continue to do a better job of promoting the young names. I think the drivers have to promote. I do it but I see a lot of guys who, when the weekend is over, go home and hang out. I'd like to do that but it's not going to help me build my brand or businesses. You've got to be on the gas at all times" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 4/2).
