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Alex Palou Writes History at Indy 500 — And He’s Not Looking Back at F1
After a career-defining win at the Indianapolis 500, Alex Palou shuts down Formula 1 rumors, choosing joy, family, and the thrill of IndyCar over the glitz of F1.
In the world of motorsports, some victories define a career—and for Alex Palou, the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is that moment. The 28-year-old Spaniard delivered a breathtaking performance to win the 109th running of the iconic race, becoming the first Spaniard ever to take the checkered flag at the Brickyard. But while the global spotlight now shines on Palou, he’s made one thing clear: he’s not leaving IndyCar for Formula 1.
“(F1) is not calling me anymore… and I don’t want to leave now,” Palou told reporters, following his historic win. “I think I’m having more fun here than they’re having there.”
Indeed, the fun has been nonstop for Palou. After taking the win on Sunday, he barely slept four hours before being whisked away for photos, interviews, and celebrations. “I had about three minutes to eat,” he laughed in a post-race interview. Yet the exhaustion hasn’t dulled his excitement. The King and Queen of Spain even sent him a personal letter—a rare honor that left him both humbled and smiling.
Palou’s victory came down to a bold move with just 14 laps to go, catching Marcus Ericsson off guard with a decisive pass into Turn One. From that point on, he never looked back, navigating traffic and strategy with perfection. It marked his first-ever win on an oval track—completing a career hat-trick of victories on ovals, road courses, and street circuits.
The celebration, however, doesn’t mark the end of the road. “This doesn’t stop here,” Palou stated. “We have to keep working to get more wins.”
Already a three-time IndyCar Series champion (2021, 2023, 2024), Palou’s 2025 season is shaping up to be his best yet. With five wins out of the first six races—including a second-place finish in the one he didn’t win—Palou is dominating the series with a confidence that only few in history have matched. His record start is reminiscent of A.J. Foyt’s legendary 1964 campaign.
Despite previous F1 testing with McLaren and rumored links to Cadillac’s potential entry into the sport, Palou is clear-headed about his future. “Even if they say, ‘Come now, you can go back later,’ what if I can’t catch up again? What if I lose what I have here?” he questioned. “I enjoy winning, but more than that—I enjoy this life. I enjoy racing, celebrating with my team, my family, and being happy.”
As the IndyCar caravan rolls into Detroit for the next Grand Prix, Palou is focused on adding another victory to his growing legacy. For now, Formula 1 will have to wait—if it ever gets another shot.