Can Anyone Catch 3-Time Defending INDYCAR Champ Alex Palou in 2026?

INDIANAPOLIS — As Alex Palou lifted the Astor Cup trophy one final time in 2025, those who came closest — but not all that close — to him in the INDYCAR standings had to watch and wonder.

Who among them could challenge the reigning champion for the title next season?

As competitors, they all believe in themselves. And even those who weren’t at the 2025 Victory Lap celebration last Tuesday night at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (the top five in the standings attended the awards ceremony) likely have some hope. 

Palou, celebrating his third consecutive title and fourth in the last five years, feels his opposition is closer than his record 196-point margin would indicate.

"[They’re] a lot closer than it seems in the points, for sure," Palou said. "There's always surprises. ... I'm ready for everybody, honestly.

Alex Palou celebrates winning his fourth INDYCAR title.

"I know it's going to be challenging to still be at the form that we're at this year, but I'm excited to fight again and to go out and see if we can repeat."

Palou could see his likely competition in front of his eyes. Pato O’Ward finished second in the 2025 standings, Scott Dixon third, Kyle Kirkwood fourth and Christian Lundgaard fifth.

However, he also wondered about at least one other competitor.

"I know that [Will] Power is not here tonight," Palou said about the 2022 champion who moves from Penske to Andretti. "And I think it is going to be a good surprise and I cannot wait for great battles with him in a new family."

The drivers who were in attendance that night know they have work to do.

O’Ward has to be considered the driver who could most likely upend Palou. The Arrow McLaren driver finished second in the standings, earned two victories and was 63