Late Fast Lap Secures Pole for Ganassi Driver
Alex Palou secured his first NTT INDYCAR SERIES Cooper Tires pole position of the hybrid era Saturday after a thrilling qualifying session for the REV Group Grand Prix at Road America. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver’s time of 1 minute, 46.0727 seconds (135.688 mph) was just 0.0476 of a second faster than Josef Newgarden in the closing minutes of the session.
Will Power and Scott McLaughlin also turned in late quick laps to qualify third and fourth, respectively, as the top four were separated by just 0.13 of a second.
What a great day for the team, Palou said after securing the pole. It’s our first pole with the hybrid, and I’m really proud of the work everyone on the No. 10 NTT DATA car has put in. We’ve struggled a little bit this year, so this is a big boost for us.
Track Conditions and Strategy Played a Role
Qualifying was held under sunny skies and warm temperatures, with the track conditions gradually improving throughout the session. The top drivers all waited until the final minutes to make their qualifying attempts, hoping to take advantage of the better grip.
Palou’s pole-winning lap came on his second and final attempt. He used the push-to-pass system to gain an advantage on the straightaways, and he was able to hold off Newgarden’s late charge.
We saved a new set of tires for the end, and we knew we had to put together a perfect lap, Palou said. I’m happy to say we were able to do that.
Palou Hopes to Convert Pole into Win
Palou is now looking to convert his pole position into a victory in Sunday’s race. He has been one of the most consistent drivers in the series this year, with four top-five finishes in the first six races.
Palou knows that it will be a tough race, but he is confident that he has a car that can win.
We’ve been working hard all weekend, and we’ve got a great car, Palou said. I’m feeling good about our chances tomorrow.
Kind regards A. Guthof.
