In a commanding display during IndyCar qualifying at Laguna Seca, Alex Palou secured pole position with a lap time of 1:08.3413. Pato O’Ward, who posted the fastest time in Practice One, maintained strong pace to closely follow Palou, highlighting their dominant performance on the track. This qualifying session showcased their superiority heading into the race.
David Malukas Reflects on Challenging Qualifying Session
David Malukas of AJ Foyt Racing expressed admiration for Palou and O’Ward, acknowledging their significant advantage over other competitors at Laguna Seca. Malukas advanced into the Fast Six but qualified sixth, nearly two seconds slower than Palou’s pole lap with a time of 1:10.1811. Despite this gap, Malukas remained positive about his position near the front of the grid.
Pato and Palou have kind of been from practice one just in a world of their own
, Malukas explained,
so to be right up there with those guys it feels really good.
—David Malukas, AJ Foyt Driver
He added,
[I’m] happy with the car [but] obviously now we kind of need to flip it for warm up coming up and go for the race tomorrow.
—David Malukas, AJ Foyt Driver
Impact of Practice Two Cancellation on Qualifying Strategy
Qualifying plans were disrupted when Practice Two was canceled due to morning fog, limiting track time for drivers and teams. Malukas and his crew adapted their strategy by using the softer red tires early in qualifying to secure a place in the next round. This adjustment was critical given the uncertainty about how the grid would shape up without the usual practice data.
Describing his approach, Malukas said,
I mean it felt really good. Obviously we had a different tyre strategy, [I] just didn’t know where things were gonna be missing practice in the morning.
—David Malukas, AJ Foyt Driver
He continued,
We did two reds on the first set so coming into this last qualifying had to do a used and felt pretty good to start and end up making a mistake in turn three, but really happy with how things are.
—David Malukas, AJ Foyt Driver
Looking Ahead: Malukas Poised for a Strong Race Start
Malukas’s qualification for the Fast Six marks his fourth such achievement this season, with his best starting position being second place at Detroit. He will start the Laguna Seca race just behind Will Power, the driver he is expected to replace at Penske Racing next year. His performance in qualifying provides a promising foundation for the upcoming race.
The continued dominance by Palou and O’Ward underscores their competitive edge, while Malukas’s strategic driving and resilience suggest an exciting battle among the top contenders during the race. The results at Laguna Seca will likely influence team tactics and driver momentum going forward in the IndyCar season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did McLaren sue Alex Palou over $47.5 million contract dispute?
A. McLaren has ended a 26-year wait for a title. Three-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou needs to travel to London after the Daytona 24-hour race. He will be attending mediation with McLaren, who is suing him for at least $47.5 million due to a contract dispute.