On Sunday, Alex Palou captured his first Indianapolis 500 victory, marking a historic moment for the Spanish driver and drawing an impressive 7.05 million viewers for the race. FOX Sports, which took over the broadcast rights for the first time, reported that the race had the most-watched Indianapolis 500 in 17 years, with viewership up 40% from last year’s event. The record-breaking viewership brought renewed attention to the iconic race, which remains a staple in American motorsport.
Palou’s win was not only a personal milestone but also significant for the sport, as he became the first Spaniard to claim the prestigious title. The race, which was held under challenging weather conditions, saw Palou overcome persistent rain and multiple caution flags to secure his position. Starting from sixth on the grid, Palou had to work his way up through the field, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination throughout the race.
During the final laps, Palou executed a crucial move to pass Marcus Ericsson with just 14 laps remaining, which proved decisive in securing his victory. Despite some lap traffic in front of him, Palou’s ability to maintain focus and momentum led to a triumph that brought immense joy and celebration. His win was celebrated with the traditional moment of kissing the bricks and sipping on ice-cold milk, symbolizing the culmination of a grueling and highly competitive race. The win solidified Palou’s place in the history of the Indianapolis 500 and highlighted his rise as one of the top drivers in the sport.
The success of the race also underscored the growing popularity of the event on a national level, particularly with the increase in viewership.FOX Sports’ first broadcast of the Indianapolis 500 appears to have resonated strongly with audiences, suggesting a brighter future for the event’s viewership and its role in American motorsport. As the racing world looks ahead to the 2025 season, Palou’s victory serves as a testament to his talent and the potential for future success in the sport.