Rasmussen takes first career IndyCar win at Milwaukee Mile

©IndyCar/JoeSkibinski

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©IndyCar/JoeSkibinski

Christian Rasmussen made IndyCar history on Sunday at Milwaukee, capturing his first career victory in stunning fashion.

Starting ninth, the 2023 Indy NXT champion and Ed Carpenter Racing driver timed his strategy perfectly, diving into the pits for fresh Firestone rubber during a late caution.

The bold move allowed him to power past pole-sitter and freshly crowned series champion Alex Palou with just 16 laps to go, holding the lead to the checkered flag in the No. 21 ECR Splenda Stevia Chevrolet.

“Today was amazing. We were so good on new tyres, even compared to other cars on new tyres. Wow – that’s a good day, a good Sunday,” the Dane said.

©IndyCar/JoeSkibinski

Team owner Ed Carpenter added: “He’s the best there is right now on short ovals… that yellow played to his hand, and he did an amazing job taking advantage of his new tires and Chevy power.”

It was a breakthrough for ECR – the team’s first win since 2021 – proving that patience, teamwork, and a smart strategy call can turn opportunity into triumph.

The final round of the 2025 NTT IndyCar Series will take place next weekend at the Nashville Superspeedway.

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.