The NTT IndyCar Series celebrated the 2024 season in style during its annual post-season Victory Lap event, where the sport’s top talents and teams were honored for their performances. The night belonged to Alex Palou, who officially claimed his third driver’s championship, securing the Astor Cup. Palou’s consistency throughout the season saw him finish 31 points ahead of Colton Herta, despite winning only two races.
Palou, now a three-time champion at 27, was praised for his ability to stay at the front almost every weekend, solidifying his place as one of the top drivers in the series. The celebration capped off an emotional year for Palou, who celebrated his triumph alongside his wife and newborn child at the final race in Nashville.
Team owner Chip Ganassi also joined Palou on stage, hoisting the Astor Cup for the 16th time in his illustrious career. Ganassi Racing’s dominance continues to be a force to be reckoned with, and their partnership with Palou was a key to their 2024 success.
The night also saw several other major awards handed out. Linus Lundqvist was named Rookie of the Year after a stellar first season in the #8 CGR Honda, which included two podium finishes and four top 10 results. Lundqvist ended the year in 16th place overall, besting his fellow rookies with remarkable composure.
Chevrolet secured the Manufacturer’s Award for the third consecutive year, outpacing Honda by 132 points, aided by Honda’s engine reliability issues. General Motors’ Eric Warren accepted the award, cementing Chevy’s growing dominance in the series.
Among other honorees were Team Penske drivers Scott McLaughlin, who took home the NTT P1 Award for earning five poles during the season, and Will Power, who claimed the Firestone Pit Performance Award thanks to his crew’s exceptional speed during pit stops.
It was a night to remember as IndyCar celebrated the best and brightest of the 2024 season, with Palou’s relentless consistency and Ganassi Racing’s winning tradition front and center.
Photo from Alex Palou Instagram
