“The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” lived up to its name as Álex Palou claimed a dramatic win in the 109th Indianapolis 500 on Sunday. The 28-year-old from Barcelona passed Marcus Ericsson on lap 187 to secure his first Indy 500 victory — becoming the first Spanish driver to win the race.
Driving for Chip Ganassi Racing, Palou celebrated with his team and father, drank the traditional milk, and kissed the bricks at the finish line. “This is unbelievable. My first oval win — what a place to do it,” said Palou, who now has five wins in the first six races of the season.
Team owner Chip Ganassi praised Palou, calling him “unbelievable” and saying the victory would define his driver’s career.
Ericsson, who won in 2022, finished a painful second and admitted, “Second means nothing in this race.”
David Malukas placed third for AJ Foyt Racing, while Josef Newgarden’s hopes for a third straight Indy 500 title ended early due to a fuel pump issue. His Penske teammate Will Power finished 19th after both started from the back due to failed inspections.
Earlier in the week, Penske fired three senior officials over a second technical infraction in just over a year, capping a tough stretch for the record 20-time Indy 500-winning team.
UA / TDS
