Alex Palou from Chip Ganassi Racing has begun his 2025 IndyCar title defense impressively, securing five wins in the first seven races. Conversely, Team Penske has yet to claim a victory this season, with Scott McLaughlin highlighting both Palou’s remarkable form and Penske’s ongoing challenges. McLaughlin, a driver often seen as a title contender, openly recognized the gap in results despite Penske’s competitive pace early in the year.
Before the season kicked off, IndyCar insider Marshall Pruett noted on his podcast that many expected Team Penske drivers, including McLaughlin, to be strong opponents for the championship. However, Penske’s campaign has been marred by misfortune and underperformance. Will Power’s struggles during qualifying rounds, a fuel system failure for Josef Newgarden causing a Did Not Finish (DNF) at the Indy 500, and McLaughlin’s own retirements at Thermal and Indianapolis highlight a pattern of setbacks.
Currently, Power leads the Team Penske drivers in the standings at fifth place with 175 points, trailing Palou by 136 points after seven rounds. Palou’s only two missed wins were at the Long Beach Grand Prix and Detroit, where incidents prevented further success. McLaughlin responded to questions about Penske’s lackluster start and Palou’s leading streak during a press interaction before the race at World Wide Technology Raceway.
“I mean, depends how you look at it. I feel there’s definitely things I could have done better as well. All three of us could have done better. Alex Palou is on a hot streak, for sure. He’s got the momentum. Momentum is a real thing.”
—Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske Driver
“I felt like we’ve been there or thereabouts pace-wise. We just haven’t quite executed. That’s on us. We’ll work hard. I’ve said it before, like with Alex, he’s on a run right now. You have to respect it. You’ve got to look at him and figure out where you can be better. Yeah, we’re working pretty hard to do that,”
—Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske Driver
Analyzing Palou’s Unexpected History at World Wide Technology Raceway
Despite Alex Palou’s stellar 2025 campaign, his record on the World Wide Technology Raceway (WWTR) oval has been underwhelming until now. Although he earned his first-ever oval win at the Indy 500 this season with apparent ease, Palou’s past performances around Gateway have not reflected the same level of dominance.
Palou has competed six times on this 1.25-mile oval circuit but has not led a single lap or secured a podium finish there. His best result at WWTR came in 2024 when he finished fourth. Given his strong form throughout 2024 and his breakthrough victory at the Indy 500, there is potential for Palou to improve his performance at WWTR during the current season.
What Penske’s Early Difficulties Signal for the IndyCar Title Fight
The contrasting fortunes of Alex Palou and Team Penske highlight the unpredictable nature of the 2025 IndyCar season. While Palou has seized control with consistent victories and momentum, Penske’s drivers, including McLaughlin, continue to search for stability and better race execution. Overcoming these challenges will be critical for Team Penske if they wish to close the sizable points gap.
Palou’s hot streak not only places pressure on rival teams but also underscores the crucial role of momentum in racing success. For McLaughlin and his Penske teammates, refocusing on race strategy and minimizing errors will be essential to challenge the Spaniard’s dominance as the season progresses. How Team Penske responds in upcoming rounds could define their championship prospects.