Palou credits pit crew for putting Long Beach victory within reach

Reigning IndyCar champion Alex Palou seized the championship lead Sunday with his win at Long Beach, a victory he believes was only made possible by the stellar pit stop under caution that allowed him to get out ahead of race leader Felix Rosenqvist.

“He was a bit stronger than us today,” said Palou. “My confidence was high, but I think my chances were low. I think it would have been very, very tough for us to get him. We were trying everything possible to overset our pit stop, try and get one lap further.”

According to longtime No. 10 car team manager Barry Wanser, the team knew a solid stop could be the difference maker they needed to seize the upper hand. “The group has been pretty solid with pit stops the last couple years,” he said. “Having the pit location and pit crew we have, it certainly was on the top of our minds coming down pit lane, knowing we have a shot at getting the win here. The guys came through.

“You just need to be smooth and consistent. That’s what they were. We benefited from it.”

Palou commended his team’s ability to execute at critical points. “The pressure they had [in] that moment was pretty high,” he said. “Incredible the work they did. Whenever I’m not in the zone, they kind of put [me] there with pit stop strategy or with the car.”

Wanser was equally complimentary. “We put a lot of effort into this,” he said. “It doesn’t come easy. I know a lot of people are saying that. Everybody in the team is doing a great job. We’re able to capitalize. It’s a dream.”

Next up for the team is the Indy 500 open test on April 28-29, which they hope will help them secure a second straight win at the series’ biggest event. The 2026 Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for May 24.