Alex Palou’s victory at the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday captivated millions of viewers, with over 7 million tuning in to watch the race. FOX Sports announced that the 2025 event drew an impressive viewership of 7.05 million, with a peak of 8.4 million viewers between 4 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. ET. This marks the most-watched Indianapolis 500 in 17 years, surpassing the 2008 race, which had a viewership of 7.245 million. The race also saw a 40% increase in viewership compared to the previous year, highlighting the event’s growing popularity.
Palou, a Spanish driver, claimed his first Indy 500 victory after passing Marcus Ericsson with 14 laps remaining and holding off the rest of the pack to secure the win. This makes Palou the first Spaniard to claim the prestigious title, marking a significant milestone in the racing history of the United States. The race was also notable as the first time FOX Sports broadcasted the Indianapolis 500, indicating a strategic shift in the media landscape for the event.
Despite the challenges posed by persistent rain and multiple caution flags, Palou’s perseverance paid off, allowing him to maintain his lead and cross the finish line victorious. As the race concluded, he celebrated with the traditional kiss of the bricks and a cool glass of milk, a ritual that symbolizes the culmination of his hard work and dedication. The event’s success underscores the enduring appeal of the Indianapolis 500 and its ability to draw a global audience, further cementing its status as one of the premier motorsports events in the world.