Palou’s performance was textbook perfection. He claimed his second Laguna Seca victory in three years, winning the 95-lap race by a commanding 1.978 seconds over Andretti Global’s Colton Herta. The margin was a testament to Ganassi’s engineering prowess and Palou’s mastery of the demanding circuit. Palou led 67 laps, weaving through the twisty, elevation-changing course with clinical precision.
The podium saw Palou at the top, followed by Team Penske’s Josef Newgarden and Will Power. Notably, Felix Rosenqvist of Arrow McLaren and Christian Lundgaard rounded out the top five, highlighting a competitive field. Palou’s win contributed crucial points towards his championship run, placing him firmly in the title hunt with a 99-point lead over second-placed Pato O’Ward.
Chip Ganassi Racing’s machine was undeniably the class of the field at Laguna Seca that weekend. The team’s sophisticated Honda powertrain, paired with precision setup, gave their drivers the edge in both speed and reliability. Palou’s win was a significant chapter in his quest for a third consecutive championship, underscoring Ganassi’s sustained dominance in IndyCar.
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere was a blend of triumph and transition, with Palou’s car packed up amid plans and preparations for the next chapter. The 2022 season finale was more than a race; it was a showcase of professional excellence and team coordination that solidified Chip Ganassi Racing’s premier status.
