On the final lap of the Iowa double-header race, AJ Foyt Racing driver Sting Ray Robb was involved in a dramatic four-car crash that left him airlifted to the hospital. The incident occurred after Alexander Rossi's car ran out of gas, causing a chain of events that led to Robb's terrifying flip.

Robb, a native of Idaho, approached Rossi's sputtering Arrow McLaren machine from behind as they exited Turn 2. In an attempt to make a pass on the inside, Robb's car collided with the rear of Rossi's, propelling him into the air. The car rolled over two-and-a-half times before skidding down the backstretch, eventually coming to a rest in the same position at Turn 3.

The chaotic scene didn't end there. Kyle Kirkwood of Andretti Global and Ed Carpenter both spun out while trying to avoid the accident. Unfortunately, they ended up colliding with Rossi on the apron, resulting in further damage. The incident left Carpenter with a blocked exit due to Kirkwood's car being partially on top of his left rear tire.

Thankfully, the AMR Safety Team swiftly acted and successfully flipped Robb's car back onto its wheels. They assisted him out of the car, and he sat on the sidepod before being placed on a stretcher. Despite the harrowing crash, Robb managed to give a thumbs up to the crowd before being taken away in an ambulance.

IndyCar later provided a reassuring update, stating that Robb was "awake, alert, and in good condition" following the crash. As a precautionary measure, he was being transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Robb was credited with a 21st place finish in the race.

Ed Carpenter, the only owner/driver in the series who exclusively competes on ovals, expressed his perspective on the incident. He noted that it was evident Rossi had been running slower due to a fuel issue, and he believed Robb misjudged the closing rate. Carpenter attempted to maneuver low to avoid the collision, but the situation quickly escalated as Kirkwood also spun out and collided with both Carpenter and Rossi.

Rossi's strategist, Brian Barnhart, revealed that they had opted for a short-fill strategy on lap 201, which caused them to run out of fuel approaching Turn 2 on the final lap. Rossi himself was unaware of the fuel problem until a few laps remained. He expressed surprise at the situation and the subsequent crash that impacted his race, ultimately finishing 15th.

Kirkwood, who finished 16th, shared Carpenter's vantage point and expressed concern over why Robb didn't pass Rossi. He attributed the incident to the significant closing rate and the challenges drivers face in maintaining reaction timing late in the race.

Apart from the intense crash, Kirkwood also had a nerve-wracking moment when his cockpit was blocked by Carpenter's rear wheel, momentarily trapping him inside. However, with the assistance of the AMR Safety Team, Kirkwood remained calm and regained confidence in their efforts to extract him from the car.

The Iowa Speedway race at its thrilling conclusion left fans and fellow drivers in shock, highlighting the risks involved in high-speed motorsport. As drivers and officials review the incident, the safety measures taken and the reactions of those involved will undoubtedly be examined to minimize such occurrences in the future.