Chip Ganassi has firmly branded a report suggesting Red Bull was prepared to sign IndyCar champion Alex Palou as Max Verstappen's teammate as "clickbait." The rumor emerged earlier this week, claiming Red Bull had enquired about releasing Palou from Ganassi for the upcoming season.
Why it matters:
Red Bull has consistently struggled to find a stable second driver alongside Max Verstappen. Alex Palou, a dominant IndyCar champion, has frequently been linked to Formula 1, making any potential move significant for both the F1 grid and IndyCar.
The details:
- Reports surfaced: Earlier this week, a report stated Red Bull had made inquiries to Ganassi's team about Palou's release.
- Firm denials: Chip Ganassi, Alex Palou, and Palou's management all explicitly denied any contact with Red Bull regarding such a move.
- Palou's theory: Palou suggested the rumor might have been initiated by a manager for another IndyCar driver who wished to secure his seat.
- Red Bull's second seat history: Since 2019, drivers like Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, and Liam Lawson have filled the second Red Bull seat. Incumbent Yuki Tsunoda has only seven points from 12 races this season.
- Palou's F1 connections: Palou has previously performed simulator work for McLaren and made his FP1 debut with the team at the 2022 United States Grand Prix.
- Contractual controversies: Palou had a public split with Ganassi after his first title in 2021, later signing with McLaren for 2023. However, he backed out of his 2024 McLaren deal to remain with Ganassi, leading to a breach of contract lawsuit from McLaren, set for hearing in September 2025.
- IndyCar dominance: Palou has dominated the 2025 IndyCar championship, winning eight of 16 races, including the Indianapolis 500.
What's next:
The McLaren lawsuit against Palou is scheduled for September 2025. Palou will continue his impressive performance in the IndyCar season finale. The speculation surrounding Red Bull's second driver will likely persist as the F1 silly season continues.