Palou’s pain is Dixon’s gain in Mid-Ohio masterclass

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Kiwi Scott Dixon showcased once again why he's one of the greatest in IndyCar history with a strategic and clinical drive to victory at Mid-Ohio, earning his record-extending 59th career win and seventh triumph at the scenic circuit.

Starting ninth, the six-time series champion delivered a masterclass in fuel saving and racecraft, completing the race on just two pit stops – one fewer than most of his rivals.

With five laps to go, Dixon capitalized on a rare mistake from Chip Ganassi racing teammate and championship leader Alex Palou, who ran wide at Turn 9.

Dixon slipped past and never looked back, expertly defending against Palou’s late charge to win by just 0.4201 seconds – the closest finish of the season.

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“It was definitely a tough race,” Dixon said. “We had fantastic cars. But just so much fun to try and pull off what we did and do it with what we had was fantastic.

“We still had to save fuel all the way to the end, so it was definitely very tight,” Dixon added.

His win continues two remarkable streaks: at least one victory in 21 consecutive seasons and wins in 23 overall.

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.