Alexander Rossi turned a clutch qualifying performance of fifth after crashing during pre-qualifying practice for tomorrow’s Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama.
The group found himself behind the 8-ball after losing control and crashing his No. 27 AutoNation Honda coming off Turn 12. The incident called for a fresh Honda powerplant along with repairs to the rear of the Dallara chassis.
Andretti Autosport called for all hands-on deck as multiple crewmembers across the team’s four entries scrambled to mend the machine with less than two hours before qualifying.
When it was all said and done, the team presented their car for technical inspection with just enough time to roll out for qualifying.
Rossi seized the opportunity in the knockout session winding up the best of the Andretti Autosport squad and advancing to the Firestone Fast Six before ending up on the grid.
“It was unbelievable,” he lamented. “I think it was six of the guys involved, management involved. It was a big, big situation to do an engine and a gearbox. So, yeah, I put them in a very tough situation.
“It was amazing just to be out there in the first place, have the opportunity to compete and qualify. Obviously, we knew that the car had been strong all weekend. We didn’t get a chance on the red tires, so the first run was kind of guessing a little bit.
“I was just pleased to be out there. I mean, obviously when you advance all the way to the end, you hope for a little bit more. Ultimately where we were two hours ago, I think everyone is relieved and happy that we got through that. Every result that we get this weekend is down to those guys, for sure.”