The reigning IndyCar champion, Alex Palou, once again demonstrated his prowess on the track at the start of the 2025 IndyCar season, securing a resounding victory at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. This was a first for Palou, having never claimed victory at this specific race before. However, this triumph effectively sets the stage for a potential fourth IndyCar title for the ace racer.
Despite qualifying in the eighth position, Palou remained unflustered and focused on the race. His Chip Ganassi Racing team’s No. 10 Honda was unmistakably in top form, as evidenced by its stellar top-three placements in both of IndyCar’s pre-race qualifying sessions. The combination of strategic acumen and impeccable driving was instrumental in steering the No. 10 car towards victory.
The initial phase of the race saw Palou adopt a low-key approach, biding his time and waiting for the opportune moment to make his move. This decisive action came in the form of an undercut pit stop around the 73rd lap, a bold maneuver that catapulted him ahead of his teammate Scott Dixon. Interestingly, Dixon later revealed that he had been racing without a functional radio.
As the race progressed and other competitors took their pit stops, Palou was confronted with the dual challenges of lapped traffic and the relentless pursuit of Josef Newgarden. However, these obstacles proved insufficient to deter the reigning champion. Palou showcased his mettle, maintaining his lead and subsequently securing his first-ever win at St. Petersburg.
This milestone achievement not only reinforces Palou’s supremacy on the track but also firmly positions him at the helm of the championship leaderboard. The victory at St. Petersburg has undoubtedly laid the foundation for another successful season, as Palou pursues his fourth IndyCar title.