Indianapolis, IN – May 25, 2025 – In a thrilling and at times chaotic 109th running of the Indianapolis 500, Spanish sensation Álex Palou cemented his place in motorsport history by claiming his maiden victory at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver held off a strong challenge from Marcus Ericsson and David Malukas in the closing laps to secure the most coveted prize in open-wheel racing.
The win marks a significant milestone for Palou, a three-time NTT IndyCar Series champion, as it is his first oval victory and makes him the first Spaniard ever to hoist the Borg-Warner Trophy. His triumph also extends an already dominant 2025 season, where he has now secured five wins in six races.
The race, which saw a brief delay due to passing sprinkles, was characterized by a mix of strategic pit stops, daring overtakes, and several high-profile incidents. Despite not leading for the majority of the race, Palou’s strategic brilliance and composure in the face of pressure ultimately proved decisive.
A Race of Attrition and Strategic Gambles
The 2025 Indianapolis 500 began with anticipation, but quickly devolved into a race of attrition for many. Pole winner Robert Shwartzman, making his oval debut, endured a shocking moment when he lost control entering his pit stall, impacting several of his crew members. Defending champion Josef Newgarden’s bid for a three-peat was dashed by a mechanical issue, while NASCAR star Kyle Larson’s attempt at “the double” ended prematurely in a multi-car collision. Even before the green flag, Scott McLaughlin’s race was over due to a crash on the warm-up lap.
As the race progressed, pit strategies played a crucial role. Palou made his final stop on Lap 168, a potentially risky move given the projected fuel mileage. However, his Chip Ganassi Racing team executed flawlessly, allowing him to contend for the lead.
The Decisive Move
The final stages of the race saw a tense battle between Palou and Marcus Ericsson, the 2022 Indy 500 winner. With just 14 laps remaining, Palou made a daring move, utilizing the aerodynamic tow from Ericsson’s car to dive underneath him into Turn 1, seizing the lead. This bold overtake proved to be the defining moment of the race.
Despite Ericsson’s persistent efforts to regain the position, Palou expertly managed his fuel and tires, holding off the Swede until the checkered flag. The race ultimately ended under caution after rookie Nolan Siegel crashed on the final lap, further underscoring the demanding nature of the event.
Podium Finishers:
- Álex Palou (Chip Ganassi Racing, Honda)
- Marcus Ericsson (Andretti Global, Honda)
- David Malukas (A. J. Foyt Racing, Chevrolet)
Following the victory, a jubilant Palou savored the traditional swig of milk in Victory Lane, declaring it the “best milk I’ve ever tasted.” His historic win not only adds his name to the prestigious Borg-Warner Trophy but also solidifies his status as one of the most formidable drivers in IndyCar.
The 2025 Indianapolis 500 will be remembered for its dramatic turns, fierce competition, and a deserving champion who, after years of excelling on road and street courses, finally conquered “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
