Palou’s leap of joy: Spanish star conquers epic Indy 500 win

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©IndyCar

In a heart-pounding finish at the 2025 Indianapolis 500, Alex Palou etched his name in history as the first Spanish driver to claim the iconic race, adding a fifth win in six races to his dream season.

The three-time IndyCar champion finally conquered his oval demons, diving inside Marcus Ericsson with 14 laps to go in a daring Turn 1 move that left the 2022 winner gasping.

The Chip Ganassi Racing charger held his nerve – even saving a dramatic slide through Turn 2 on the final lap – to secure victory as a late crash by Arrow McLaren rookie Nolan Siegel brought out the caution flag, sealing the deal.

From start to finish, the race was a rollercoaster of strategy and chaos. Palou cycled to the front of the conventional strategy pack, outsmarting Ericsson, who struggled to lap backmarkers despite a shorter final stint.

David Malukas snagged third for AJ Foyt Racing, while Penske’s hopes crumbled when Josef Newgarden retired with a fuel pump issue after a heroic charge from 32nd, and Scott McLaughlin crashed before the race even began, weaving into the pitwall during warm-ups.

Prema’s polesitter Robert Shwartzman also faltered, retiring after a pitstop mishap, though teammate Callum Ilott crossed the checkered flag in 12th-place.

Captured in a spectacular moment, Palou leaps joyously beside his red-and-yellow No. 10 car, helmet aloft, embodying the thrill of victory.

“Adios, oval curse!” he might’ve shouted, as he sipped the traditional milk in Indy’s victory lane, leaving Ericsson to rue his Turn 1 hesitation. With this win, Palou’s not just racing – he’s rewriting history with a grin!

©IndyCar

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.