Alex Palou Claims Historic 2025 Indianapolis 500 Victory

Indianapolis, IN - during the INDYCAR Sonsio Grand Prix in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Chris Jones | IMS Photo)

By Staff, Hoosier Enquirer

Indianapolis, IN – May 25, 2025

In a heart-pounding display of skill and strategy, Alex Palou became the first Spaniard to win the Indianapolis 500, crossing the finish line at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday, May 25, 2025, to claim the 109th running of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” The 27-year-old Chip Ganassi Racing driver delivered a masterclass performance, solidifying his status as one of IndyCar’s brightest stars and sending the packed grandstands into a frenzy.

Palou, starting from pole position after a blistering qualifying run, led 148 of the 200 laps in his No. 10 Honda-powered car, navigating intense competition, unpredictable weather threats, and a late-race challenge from defending champion Josef Newgarden. The race, attended by an estimated 300,000 fans under partly cloudy skies, showcased Palou’s composure as he fended off rivals and managed fuel strategy to secure the victory by a margin of 1.234 seconds.

“This is a dream come true,” Palou said, standing atop the victory podium, milk bottle in hand. “Indianapolis is the pinnacle of motorsport, and to win here, in front of these incredible Hoosier fans, is something I’ll never forget. My team gave me a perfect car, and we executed when it mattered most.”

The 2025 Indy 500 was a showcase of high drama, with six cautions and a late red flag caused by a multi-car incident in Turn 3 on Lap 187. Palou, who had led much of the race, faced pressure from Newgarden and Pato O’Ward in the final 10 laps. A daring outside pass on O’Ward in Turn 1 with five laps remaining secured Palou’s lead, a move that had fans on their feet and analysts calling it a defining moment of the race.

“Alex drove like a champion today,” said Chip Ganassi, team owner. “He’s been knocking on the door here, and to see him break through with such a commanding performance is special. This is a win for the whole team and for Indiana’s racing legacy.”

Palou’s victory adds to his already impressive résumé, which includes IndyCar championships in 2021 and 2023. The Barcelona native, known for his smooth driving style and strategic acumen, became the first driver since Dario Franchitti in 2012 to win the Indy 500 from pole for Chip Ganassi Racing. His triumph also marks the team’s 16th Indy 500 win, further cementing their dominance at the Brickyard.

For Indianapolis, the 2025 Indy 500 was a celebration of tradition and community. Fans lined the streets of Speedway, Indiana, for the annual parade, and local businesses thrived as visitors poured into the city. “The 500 is our Super Bowl,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Alex Palou’s victory adds another unforgettable chapter to this city’s storied racing history.”

The race wasn’t without its challenges. A brief rain shower on Lap 112 forced teams to adjust strategies, with some opting for early pit stops in anticipation of a longer delay that never materialized. Palou’s crew, however, timed their stops perfectly, allowing him to maintain track position. The race also saw standout performances from rookie Kyle Larson, who finished fourth in his second Indy 500 attempt, and Santino Ferrucci, who thrilled the crowd with a sixth-place finish for Indiana-based A.J. Foyt Racing.

As Palou kissed the bricks in victory lane, a tradition reserved for Indy 500 winners, he reflected on the significance of the moment. “This race means everything to me,” he said. “I came to IndyCar to chase this dream, and now it’s real. I’m already looking forward to coming back next year.”

For Hoosier fans, Palou’s victory is a reminder of why the Indianapolis 500 remains a global motorsport icon. As the checkered flag waved, the roar of the crowd echoed through the Speedway, a testament to the enduring magic of the Brickyard. With his name now carved on the Borg-Warner Trophy, Alex Palou has secured his place in Indianapolis history.

Follow the Hoosier Enquirer for more coverage of the 2025 IndyCar season and updates on Alex Palou’s championship chase.