# David Malukas Cleared by IndyCar to Return at Nashville Medical clearance granted for the Nashville race. - **Source:** [Forbes - Business](https://brifing.si/source/e0310925-a7af-4d4b-80a7-c80d400e49fa) - **Published:** 2026-07-18 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a1c18b08-b91c-463e-8fad-a7d3d5f3c64a ## Malukas' Return Process David Malukas underwent medical evaluations after his severe crash at Nashville Speedway. IndyCar officials confirmed the driver successfully completed required tests to return to racing. This demonstrated Malukas' health was sufficient for competition. ## Conor Daly's Opportunity While Malukas' status was uncertain, Conor Daly was set to replace him as Team Penske's backup driver. However, IndyCar rules state that once a driver change is made, the original driver cannot return for the weekend. Daly's dream was thus cut short. ## Medical Clearance Details Malukas passed the test by entering and exiting his car in full uniform at 4:30 PM Central Time. He was evaluated by IndyCar's independent officials and medical director Dr. Angie Fiege. This process proved the driver was physically fit to race. ## Team Penske's Strategy The team chose to wait for clarity on Malukas' condition before making any decisions. They missed qualifying due to the backup car not being ready. Additionally, they received a 9-grid penalty for an unapproved engine change, starting 24th in the 25-car field. ## Pre-Race Preparations Team Penske President Jonathan Diuguid planned to use Daly's qualifying attempt as a shakedown run for the backup car. However, Malukas' clearance nullified this plan. The team meticulously managed the process to ensure Malukas could compete. ## Race Significance Malukas' return is crucial for both his career and Team Penske's season performance. The Nashville Superspeedway race highlighted the team's strategic focus and prioritization of driver health. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucemartin/2026/07/18/indycars-david-malukas-cleared-to-return-by-indycar-at-nashville/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._