Linus earned a new career milestone in Indy Lights qualifying at Gateway, clinching his first-ever oval pole position after setting the pace with a commanding run…
By virtue of leading the championship, Linus was the last driver to hit the track for his two-lap attempt – and decisively stormed to pole with a 160.259 mph benchmark that edged out HMD Motorsports team-mate Benjamin Pedersen.
The effort marks Linus’ seventh pole position this season, and crucially comes at a track renowned for its limited overtaking opportunities. It also nets him an additional bonus point, extending his championship lead from 95 to 96 points over Hunter McElrea (who qualified fifth).
LINUS: “Yes! Wow. I have to say a massive thank you to my team for giving me a great car. We were strong in the test here last week and have continued to improve little by little, and I’m pleased to see Benjamin up there too in an HMD front-row lock-out. The guys thoroughly deserve it.
“I knew it was going to be close. I remember in qualifying here last year, I was slightly under the limit, so I had to turn it up a bit. I had a pretty big wobble in Turn 1 on my first lap that cost some time, but thankfully it was still enough.
“I’m thrilled with my first pole position on an oval – I actually rate it highly – but tomorrow is when the big points are handed out. Getting the pole at this track is crucial, and of course I’ll try to make the most of it and bring home another victory.”
The race – round 11 of 14 on this year’s Indy Lights schedule – is slated to start at 🇺🇸3:15 pm / 🇸🇪22.15 on Saturday.
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