Alex Palou, the Chip Ganassi Racing superstar, has finally broken his oval track duck with a thrilling victory at the Indianapolis 500 on May 25, 2025. In his sixth attempt at the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the three-time IndyCar Series champion demonstrated his exceptional skill and composure, securing his first-ever win on an oval and etching his name into Indy 500 history.
Palou's journey to victory was far from easy. He faced fierce competition from a talented field of drivers, including former Formula 1 driver and 2022 Indy 500 winner Marcus Ericsson. Ericsson, now with Andretti Global, proved to be a formidable rival, pushing Palou to his limits in the final stages of the race. David Malukas of A.J. Foyt Enterprises also delivered a strong performance, ultimately finishing third.
The race saw several lead changes and dramatic moments. Ryan Hunter-Reay, at one point, held the lead but was forced to pit due to a hybrid system failure. Palou seized the opportunity, showcasing his exceptional driving prowess. With just 14 laps remaining, Palou made a decisive move, overtaking Ericsson for the lead and never relinquishing it.
Despite having older tires than his closest competitors, Palou expertly managed his car, maintaining his lead with remarkable precision. He navigated lapped traffic strategically, using it to his advantage to hold off Ericsson and Malukas.
The final lap was filled with tension as Nolan Siegel crashed, bringing out the caution flag and effectively ending the race. Palou crossed the finish line under caution, securing his hard-fought victory. The win marked Chip Ganassi Racing's sixth Indianapolis 500 triumph.
Palou's victory was met with widespread celebration. The Barcelona native is the first Spaniard to ever win the Indianapolis 500. Overjoyed, Palou parked his No. 10 Dallara-Honda just past the Yard of Bricks and embraced his Ganassi team members, including his father, Ramon.
This win further solidifies Palou's dominant start to the 2025 IndyCar season. With five wins in the first six races, the three-time series champion is well on his way to another title. His Indianapolis 500 victory is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to his team's exceptional preparation and execution.