Alex Palou defends title in Alabama in runaway fashion

Palou led 79 of 90 laps to claim his second win of the season at Barber Motorsports Park.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:55am

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Alex Palou of Spain dominated the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, leading 79 of 90 laps to claim the victory at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. It was Palou's second win of the 2026 IndyCar Series season and his third career victory at the Barber circuit.

Why it matters

Palou is the reigning four-time IndyCar Series champion, and this dominant win at Barber Motorsports Park further solidifies his status as the driver to beat in the series. The race also showcased the competitive nature of the IndyCar field, with Christian Lundgaard and Graham Rahal finishing second and third respectively.

The details

Palou started from the pole position and led the majority of the race, only briefly losing the lead during his final pit stop. Lundgaard was able to take the lead at that point, but a slow pit stop for the Dane allowed Palou to regain the top spot and cruise to the victory. Rahal finished third, about a second behind Lundgaard.

  • Palou won the race on Sunday, March 30, 2026.
  • It was Palou's second win of the 2026 IndyCar Series season.

The players

Alex Palou

The four-time defending IndyCar Series champion from Spain, driving for Chip Ganassi Racing.

Christian Lundgaard

A Danish driver competing for Arrow McLaren in the IndyCar Series, who finished second in the race.

Graham Rahal

An American driver who finished third in the race.

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What they’re saying

“Incredible day. I told you qualifying was one of the best car balances I've ever driven. Today in the race, it was pretty good in the beginning, really good at the end, but we suffered a little bit on the used blacks (Firestone Firehawk primary tires) that we had to use.”

— Alex Palou

“We know the pace that we had and just how we were catching him. It's unfortunate. The guys have done an amazing job, and I don't think (that mistake has) ever really happened. One in almost 100 starts, I think it's OK.”

— Christian Lundgaard

What’s next

The next IndyCar Series race will be held on April 13, 2026 at the Long Beach Grand Prix.

The takeaway

Palou's dominant victory at Barber Motorsports Park further cements his status as the driver to beat in the IndyCar Series, as he continues his quest for a fifth consecutive championship. The race also showcased the depth of talent in the series, with Lundgaard and Rahal pushing Palou throughout the event.