David Malukas Hospitalised After IndyCar Crash in Nashville

Severe Impact Measures Over 130mph

Malukas entered turn one at 201 mph before his Chevrolet spun out of control. The vehicle flew backwards into the outside wall of turn two at an estimated speed between 130 mph and 140 mph.

The extreme force of the impact forced the driver's knee upward, which dislodged the steering wheel. Medical staff initially treated the driver inside the infield care centre at the track.

IndyCar Deputy Medical Director Dr Angi Fieg confirmed the driver remained awake and alert. Medical personnel later chose to transport him to a nearby hospital using a private vehicle for further evaluation.

Team Penske Rebuilds Damaged Car

Mechanics began fitting the number 12 Verizon Penske car with a completely new tub immediately after the incident. Malukas had recorded the third-fastest lap of the session with an average speed of 196.249 mph before crashing.

The extensive repairs to the chassis automatically trigger a nine-place grid penalty for the upcoming race. Team members worked under tight constraints to prepare the replacement components before the next sessions.

Conor Daly Steps in to Help

Team Penske selected Conor Daly to take over the qualifying duties if the car could be prepared in time. Officials used the delayed session as an impromptu installation lap to test the heavily rebuilt vehicle.

The team delayed their final driver decision until the start of the final practice session because the car missed the initial qualifying window. If Daly takes part in the practice session, he will remain the sole eligible driver for Sunday's main race.