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Dramatic Crashes Halt IndyCar Practice at Barber Motorsports Park
Scott McLaughlin goes through catch fence, Will Power suffers brake failure in wild day of racing action.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:40pm
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The second practice session of the IndyCar weekend at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama was cut short on Saturday morning after terrifying crashes involving Team Penske's Scott McLaughlin and Andretti Global's Will Power. McLaughlin's car went airborne and went through the catch fence, while Power suffered a suspected rear brake failure and crashed hard into the barrier. Both drivers were uninjured, highlighting the improved safety systems in modern IndyCars.
Why it matters
The crashes at Barber Motorsports Park, a challenging and technical circuit, underscore the dangers and unpredictability of IndyCar racing. While no drivers were seriously injured, the incidents serve as a reminder of the constant efforts to improve safety in the sport and the importance of advanced vehicle engineering and protective equipment.
The details
McLaughlin's crash occurred as he was entering Turn 1, when he dipped a wheel into the dirt on the outside of the track. As he turned into the corner, the rear of his car stepped out, sending him into a spin. His car then went airborne and went through the catch fence, but he was able to walk away unharmed. Power's incident happened during the first qualifying group, when he appeared to suffer a rear brake failure in the heavy braking zone into Turn 5, sending him nose-first into the barrier.
- The second practice session was cut short on Saturday morning.
- McLaughlin's crash occurred as he was entering Turn 1.
- Power's crash happened during the first qualifying group.
The players
Scott McLaughlin
A New Zealand driver competing for Team Penske in the IndyCar series, currently sitting 5th in the championship standings.
Will Power
An Australian driver competing for Andretti Global in the IndyCar series, a former series champion.
Alex Palou
The reigning IndyCar champion, who will start on pole position for the race at Barber Motorsports Park.
David Malukas
A driver competing for Team Penske, who will start in 2nd position on the grid.
Kyle Kirkwood
The current championship leader, driving for Andretti Global.
What’s next
The IndyCar race at Barber Motorsports Park will take place on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
The takeaway
The dramatic crashes at Barber Motorsports Park highlight the inherent dangers of IndyCar racing and the constant need to improve safety, but also demonstrate the remarkable progress made in vehicle engineering and driver protection that allowed both McLaughlin and Power to walk away unharmed from their high-speed impacts.
