Indianapolis, Ind. (Sunday, May 12, 2024) – Wearing a racing helmet mirroring the striking gold football helmets of the University of Notre Dame, Irish driver James Roe and his No. 29 Topcon Dallara continued to show speed across a two-day INDY NXT™ by Firestone doubleheader on the road course at The Racing Capital of the World. 

After a single practice on Friday morning, Roe fought for pole position in the afternoon qualifying session – where a driver’s fastest lap dictated their Race 1 starting position and their second fastest lap marked their Race 2 grid slot. Roe notched the two second fastest laps in qualifying Group 2, less than one tenth from the pole. Under 2024’s new qualifying rules, Roe’s qualifying effort locked in a 3rd place grid position for both races.

Just hours after qualifying, Roe made a quick run to the front in Race 1 – surging into second position moments after the green flag dropped. Unfortunately, a lock-up later in the opening lap would send the No. 29 off course requiring a trip to the pits to address tire damage. The No. 29 team would finish the day in 15th.      

“That one was on me,” offered Roe after the race. “We had a great qualifying position starting on the inside of the second row. Going into Turn 7, I locked up my fronts, went straight and got a flat spot on my tires. Tomorrow’s a new day and we have a fast car. Ready to get back to it and see what we can do.” 

Ready for redemption in Race 2, Roe and his No. 29 Topcon machine survived contact during a chaotic start as well as Lap 4 contact with the No. 39 car – starting a battle that continued to the checkered flag. Racing in 4th position, Roe showed poise and race management as he fended off challengers while chasing down the car ahead and the opportunity for a podium. Roe’s gritty drive was rewarded with a 4th place finish and 32 important championship points. 

“We had a messy start after getting hit and knocked out of position so we had to climb our way back forward,” reflected Roe. “I think the pace was awesome and it was a hard fought fourth position. I don’t think I ever fought so hard for a top-five finish. Now we’re onto Detroit.”

Coming out of the weekend, Roe continues to hold a tie for P7 in the championship for his team and partners Topcon, Ring Power Corporation, CES Power, Strong Roots, Trintech, Tourism Ireland, and The Ireland Funds. 

After a break for the iconic Month of May events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, INDY NXT by Firestone will be back in action in the Motor City on June 2 (10:20 AM ET) as the series roars onto the Streets of Detroit.

ABOUT JAMES ROE

Hometown: Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland

Residence: Indianapolis

Age: 25

2024 Car: No. 29 Topcon Andretti Global Dallara

Points Position: T7

Social: IG – @jamesroe_ie, X –@jamesroe_IE, FB – @JamesRoeJr