Josef Newgarden Wins Record-Breaking IndyCar Race at Phoenix

Newgarden takes the lead in the championship after Palou's DNF.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Josef Newgarden won the IndyCar race at Phoenix Raceway, breaking several on-track passing records in the process. Newgarden's win came after reigning champion Alex Palou suffered a DNF early in the race following contact with Rinus Veekay. Newgarden now leads the championship standings, 5 points ahead of Kyle Kirkwood in second and 19 points ahead of Palou in fifth.

Why it matters

This race marked IndyCar's return to Phoenix Raceway after a 28-race hiatus. The record-breaking number of on-track passes and lead changes highlighted the excitement and competitiveness of the series as it continues to grow in popularity.

The details

Newgarden started second on the grid but fell back after the first round of pit stops. He then charged through the field, passing Christian Rasmussen for the lead with about 8 laps remaining. Rasmussen, who led for much of the race, faded to 14th at the finish. The race featured a total of 565 on-track passes, 323 for position, and 18 lead changes, all new records for an IndyCar race at Phoenix.

  • The race took place on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • Newgarden's win was his first of the 2026 IndyCar season.
  • Palou entered the weekend leading the championship but suffered a DNF 21 laps into the race.

The players

Josef Newgarden

An American racing driver who competes full-time in the IndyCar Series, driving the No. 2 car for Team Penske. He is a two-time IndyCar champion.

Alex Palou

The reigning IndyCar champion, driving the No. 10 car for Chip Ganassi Racing.

Christian Rasmussen

A Danish racing driver competing full-time in the IndyCar Series, driving the No. 21 car for Ed Carpenter Racing.

Kyle Kirkwood

An American racing driver who is second in the 2026 IndyCar championship standings, driving the No. 14 car for A.J. Foyt Enterprises.

Will Power

An Australian racing driver who competes full-time in the IndyCar Series, driving the No. 12 car for Team Penske.

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What they’re saying

“Something feels off, but I'm not sure what.”

— Christian Rasmussen (Fox Sports)

“You can't just run someone into the wall.”

— Christian Rasmussen (Fox Sports)

What’s next

The next IndyCar race is scheduled for April 5, 2026 at Long Beach.

The takeaway

This record-breaking race at Phoenix showcased the incredible competitiveness and excitement of the IndyCar Series as it continues to grow in popularity. The battle for the championship is shaping up to be a close one between Newgarden, Kirkwood, and the defending champion Palou.