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VIDEO – Alex Palou’s 100th IndyCar start ends in disaster: shocking crash at Phoenix Raceway

David Castro by David Castro
March 8, 2026
in IndyCar, Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0

Title: Alex Palou's Milestone Race Turns to Misfortune with Early Crash at Phoenix

In a heart-stopping twist of fate, Alex Palou's monumental 100th IndyCar start spiraled into chaos as the reigning champion crashed out early in the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway. The excitement was palpable as Palou, a four-time IndyCar Series champion, took to the track, but just 22 laps into the race, his aspirations for victory were abruptly shattered when he collided with Rinus VeeKay's #76 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet.

Starting from the 10th position, Palou's skill was on full display as he surged into the top three shortly after the green flag waved. He settled in behind Team Penske's elite duo—pole-sitter David Malukas and veteran Josef Newgarden—when a brief caution set the stage for an intense restart on Lap 19. However, the drama escalated quickly when Graham Rahal's #15 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Honda overtook Palou, leaving him vulnerable.

Here's another look at what happened between Alex Palou and Rinus VeeKay at Phoenix. pic.twitter.com/9rHO2aHKXu

— INDYCAR on FOX (@IndyCarOnFOX) March 7, 2026

As the tension mounted, VeeKay attempted a bold maneuver to pass Palou on the high line. In a critical moment, both drivers found themselves vying for the same space in the dogleg. Palou, seemingly unaware of VeeKay's position, continued to move up the track, leading to a catastrophic collision that sent Palou's vehicle slamming into the outside wall. The damage was severe enough for Palou to retire from the race, bringing an unfortunate end to what was supposed to be a celebratory milestone.

“I haven't been able to see it,” Palou remarked, expressing his confusion about the incident. “I just don’t know if I squeezed someone or if someone was trying to get there. I didn’t think there was anybody there. It’s unfortunate that we ended up in the wall so early and not even trying, but it’s racing.” His frustration was evident, as he lamented the lost opportunity for a strong finish.

Meanwhile, VeeKay, who managed to continue racing despite the collision, was left fuming over what he perceived as Palou's reckless driving. “He drove up on me, man,” VeeKay shouted over the radio, clearly upset about the contact that had just cost both drivers their chances at winning. As he navigated the track five laps down in 23rd position, VeeKay expressed concerns about potential suspension damage, stating, “Yeah, steering up to the left. I think it's got suspension damage here.”

The early exit of such a prominent competitor not only left fans stunned but also raised questions about the intense rivalries and split-second decisions that define the world of IndyCar racing. As Palou reflects on this harrowing experience, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder the unpredictable nature of motorsport, where triumph can turn to tragedy in the blink of an eye.

Palou's crash serves as a stark reminder that in racing, glory is often accompanied by peril, and no milestone is guaranteed to end in victory. The IndyCar Series continues to thrill and enthrall, but for Palou, this race will be one he will want to forget as he gears up for the challenges ahead.

Tags: 1997-indycar-seriesalex-palou-2djr-team-penskegraham-rahaljuncos-hollinger-racingrinus-veekay
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