Beyond Max Verstappen, few drivers in 2023 could claim to be more dominant in their respective series than Palou.
The Spaniard’s totals of five wins, a further five podiums and a full-house of top-10 finishes from the 17 races delivered a beatdown to the field and allowed him to lock up the championship a round early – the first time it wasn’t decided at the season finale since Sebastien Bourdais collected his fourth Champ Car title in 2007.
Insight: The factors that fuelled Palou's 2023 IndyCar domination
Additionally, he claimed two poles, set four fastest laps and led the most laps on five occasions.
It was the second title for Palou in three years, which showcased his mental toughness amid off-track drama with McLaren – the original destination plan for a potential Formula 1 landing spot before a change of heart to return to Chip Ganassi Racing.
“It’s been an amazing year,” acknowledges Palou. “We had fast cars everywhere. It’s been so fun. I’m a bit sad that this season is over honestly because it seems like we go out on track, we know that we have a chance to win the races.”
Source: Autosport