Dixon takes season-opening IndyCar win in Texas

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Chip Ganassi Racing's Scott Dixon added one more win to his long list of credentials on Saturday evening, the Kiwi triumphing in IndyCar's curtain-raiser event in Texas.

Dixon put in a dominate performance, edging Penske rivals Simon Pagenaud and Josef Newgarden in the 200-lap Genesys 300 which took place without fans as a health and safety precaution amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dixon's CGR teammate Felix Rosenqvist was determined to take a shot at the Kiwi after a late caution period and restart but the Swede ended his night in the Safer barrier which gave Dixon a clear path to the checkered flag.

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"The car just had some really good speed. It was just nice to drive in traffic," enthused Dixon in the winner's circle. "Never really had to push too hard. Just trying to make sure we could stay ahead of the rest of them.

"Not often you get a car like that. Just very thankful to have that. The team gave me an amazing car. It was a fun night for us on the #9. It's great to be back in the car after such a long break, to do it like that."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.