time defending Indy 500 champion lives a life filled with travel, family, fitness, and giving back to the community. Known for his fierce focus behind the wheel, Newgarden’s off-track life paints a picture of a man just as driven by personal passions and purpose.
Family Comes First
Josef Newgarden calls Nashville, Tennessee home, where he lives with his wife Ashley Welch and their son, Kota, who was born in 2022. Married in 2019, the couple embraces a grounded, family-focused lifestyle away from the intensity of motorsports.
They’ve also opened their hearts to a four-legged family member—Axel, a dog they adopted through Wags and Walks Nashville, a local animal rescue organization. Their love for animals is more than personal—both Josef and Ashley are active advocates for pet adoption, regularly supporting rescue events and raising awareness for animal welfare causes.
A Passion for Global Adventures
Newgarden isn’t just racing around tracks—he’s a globe-trotter with a deep love for exploring new cultures. One of his favorite destinations? Japan. In fact, Josef has visited the country four times and dreams of living there one day.
Other travel highlights include cosmopolitan cities and serene getaways alike. The Newgardens have enjoyed strolling through the historic streets of Paris, savoring food scenes in Chicago and New York City, and soaking in the natural beauty of Hawaii and Copenhagen. These experiences not only provide a break from the racing circuit but also offer inspiration for their creative and philanthropic ventures.
Staying Race-Ready Through Fitness
Newgarden’s success on the track is no accident—he trains like a machine. Physical endurance, quick reflexes, and mental focus are all essential in IndyCar racing, and Josef leaves nothing to chance. His workout routine includes weightlifting, cross-training, and rowing.
Even during downtime, he’s staying active. The Newgarden family frequently travels to Colorado for winter sports, where Josef enjoys skiing and snowboarding. His commitment to fitness isn’t just about professional performance; it’s a personal passion that complements his competitive spirit.
Making a Difference Off the Track
While speed defines his racing career, Josef’s heart moves at a different pace—one of compassion. He serves as a driver ambassador for the SeriousFun Children’s Network, a nonprofit founded by actor and race team owner Paul Newman. The organization offers life-changing camp experiences for children with serious illnesses.
In addition to his charity work with SeriousFun, Newgarden and his wife continue to support Wags and Walks Nashville. Through his popular “Smash for Charity” Ping Pong Challenge and other fundraising events, Josef has raised nearly a million dollars for various causes.
These efforts reflect a broader trend among professional athletes using their platforms to spark real-world change. To learn more about nonprofit opportunities and how federal programs support community initiatives.
A Storybook Legacy
In a unique blend of sports and storytelling, Josef and Ashley co-wrote a children’s book titled Josef’s BIG Dream. The book follows Newgarden’s journey from a young boy with a love for racing to his triumph at the Indy 500. It’s a motivational tale that encourages kids to pursue their dreams with grit and heart—just like the man himself.
For Josef, the book is more than a memoir—it’s a message. It speaks to the power of believing in yourself and staying committed, regardless of obstacles.
Grounded by Purpose
Despite his celebrity status and international acclaim, Josef Newgarden remains refreshingly down-to-earth. He balances a high-speed career with a fulfilling personal life rooted in love, service, and adventure. Whether he’s spending time with his son in the backyard, skiing down a slope in Colorado, or competing for charity, he approaches life with the same determination he brings to the racetrack.
