Alex Palou’s chances for a victory were cut short when he crashed out early in the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway. The reigning and four-time IndyCar Series champion, Palou, was making his 100th career start when he collided with Rinus VeeKay’s #76 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet, ending his race after just 22 laps on the 1-mile tri-oval track.
Starting 10th on the grid, Palou’s #10 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda quickly moved up into the top three positions after the green flag. He settled in behind the Team Penske duo of David Malukas and Josef Newgarden. However, a brief caution period led to a restart on Lap 19, where Palou lost his position to Graham Rahal’s #15 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Honda.
The incident that ended Palou’s race occurred when VeeKay attempted to pass him on the high line as they went through the dogleg. The two made contact, causing Palou’s right-front to hit the outside wall and forcing his car to a halt on the inside of the track with significant damage.
Palou expressed his uncertainty about the incident, mentioning that he was unsure if he had squeezed someone or if someone was trying to make a move. VeeKay, on the other hand, believed that he was squeezed into contact by Palou and expressed frustration over the radio. Despite the collision, VeeKay continued racing but suspected that his car had sustained suspension damage, running five laps down in 23rd place at the time.
The early crash at Phoenix Raceway marked a disappointing end to what was supposed to be a milestone race for Alex Palou, highlighting the unpredictable nature of racing and the importance of split-second decisions on the track.
