Scott Dixon wins in wild Nashville comeback to pass Mario Andretti on IndyCar win list

NASHVILLE, Tennessee — Scott Dixon passed Mario Andretti for second on IndyCar’s all-time win list with a victory Sunday in the messy Music City Grand Prix that pulled him within reach of a record-tying seventh series championship.

Dixon overcame a poor qualifying effort, damage to his Chip Ganassi Racing car, a crash-fest around the downtown streets of Nashville and finally a drag race against Scott McLaughlin in a two-lap push to the finish. He won for the 53rd time in his career to break a tie with Andretti for second in the all-time column.

More important, Dixon jumped to second in the points standings and trails series leader Will Power by six points with three races remaining. One more title would tie him with A.J. Foyt with a record seven championships.

RESULTS: Where everyone finished in the Music City Grand Prix

Foyt is also IndyCar’s all-time winner with 67 victories.

McLaughlin, for Team Penske, finished second for a 1-2 finish for the drivers from New Zealand.

The 0.1067-second margin of victory was the fourth-closest in IndyCar history on a road or street course.

“He’s a legend, the GOAT,” said McLaughlin. “I’ve always dreamed of racing him to the finish line. That was a proper duel.”

RETWEET to congratulate @scottdixon9 on WINNING the @IndyCar @MusicCityGP in Nashville!

With that victory, he's now in sole possession of second on the all-time wins list. pic.twitter.com/2BgOqqyNlt

— INDYCAR on NBC (@IndyCaronNBC) August 7, 2022

Alex Palou, the reigning IndyCar champion, finished third as Ganassi put two drivers on the podium.

Palou moved one spot in the standings to fifth as 33 points separate the title contenders. On his way to victory lane, team owner Chip Ganassi stopped to congratulate Palou, the driver