In a stunning display of dominance that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, Alex Palou has clinched his fourth IndyCar championship title, solidifying his status as one of the greatest drivers in the series’ history. The 28-year-old Spaniard sealed the deal at the Grand Prix of Portland on August 10, 2025, with two races still remaining in the season, leaving fans and fellow racers alike in awe. But perhaps no reaction was more poignant than that of his compatriot, Formula 1 star Carlos Sainz, who was left virtually speechless by Palou’s achievement. Sainz’s heartfelt congratulations have sparked a national conversation: Is Alex Palou emerging as Spain’s new racing king, eclipsing even the likes of Sainz and the legendary Fernando Alonso?

The 2025 IndyCar season has been nothing short of a masterclass from Palou. Driving for Chip Ganassi Racing, he amassed an incredible eight victories out of 15 races, including his maiden triumph at the prestigious Indianapolis 500 in May. This fourth title—his third consecutive—places him among racing immortals like Mario Andretti and Dario Franchitti, who also boast four championships. Palou’s path to glory wasn’t without drama; his closest challenger, Pato O’Ward of Arrow McLaren, suffered a devastating engine failure early in the Portland race, effectively handing the crown to the unflappable Spaniard. Finishing third in that race was enough to secure an insurmountable lead, capping off a season where Palou’s consistency and speed were unmatched.

Carlos Sainz, the Williams F1 driver and son of rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., was quick to express his admiration. In an Instagram story posted on August 11, 2025, Sainz shared a photo of Palou celebrating, overlaid with the emphatic caption: “WHAT A MACHINE!!! 4x @indycar 🥇 CONGRATULATIONS @alexpalou!! 👏🏻👏🏻” The post, which quickly went viral, captured Sainz’s genuine excitement and pride for his fellow Spaniard. Known for his composed demeanor on and off the track, Sainz’s exuberant reaction—calling Palou a “machine”—highlighted the profound impact of this achievement. It’s not the first time Sainz has sung Palou’s praises; earlier in the year, after Palou’s Indy 500 win, Sainz dropped a four-word reaction: “What a machine, Alex!” and even advocated for Palou to get a shot in Formula

The two drivers share a deep-rooted connection that dates back to their karting days in Spain. Both hailing from the Iberian Peninsula, they represent a golden era for Spanish motorsport, following in the footsteps of two-time F1 world champion Fernando Alonso. Sainz, at 30, has established himself as a formidable force in F1, with multiple Grand Prix wins under his belt, including a memorable victory at the 2022 British Grand Prix. His move to Williams for the 2025 season has been marked by consistent performances, but the high-stakes world of F1 often leaves little room for error. Palou, on the other hand, has carved out his niche in IndyCar, where his tactical brilliance and raw speed have led to unprecedented success. Born in Sant Antoni de Vilamajor, near Barcelona, Palou’s journey took him from European junior formulas to Super Formula in Japan before landing in IndyCar in 2020. His rapid ascent—winning his first title in 2021—has been a testament to his adaptability and determination

This latest triumph has reignited debates about Palou’s potential in Formula 1. Sainz has been vocal in his support, stating earlier this year that Palou “deserves a chance” in the pinnacle of motorsport. Fans echo this sentiment, with many on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) calling for teams to give the IndyCar champ a test drive. However, Palou himself has expressed contentment with his current path. In a post-Indy 500 interview, he described F1 as “the total opposite” to why he enjoys racing, emphasizing his love for the competitive balance and excitement of IndyCar. Despite a brief flirtation with McLaren in 2022, which ended in a contract dispute, Palou has committed long-term to Ganassi, signing a multi-year extension. Yet, Sainz’s endorsement carries weight; as a current F1 driver, his words could influence team principals scouting for talent.

The broader implications for Spanish racing are profound. Spain has long been synonymous with motorsport excellence, from Alonso’s F1 dominance to Marc Márquez’s MotoGP supremacy. Palou’s achievements add a new dimension, showcasing Spanish talent in American open-wheel racing—a series often overshadowed by F1’s global glamour. Sainz’s reaction underscores a sense of national pride and camaraderie, transcending the boundaries of different racing disciplines. In a country passionate about speed, Palou’s fourth title has sparked celebrations from Madrid to Barcelona, with media outlets hailing him as a “national hero.” Social media is ablaze with comparisons: Is Palou the new king, or does Sainz’s F1 pedigree still hold the throne? Some argue that Palou’s consistent championships in a highly competitive field like IndyCar—where multiple teams can win—demonstrate superior all-around skill, while others point to F1’s technological sophistication and star power.

Looking ahead, Palou’s reign shows no signs of slowing. With two races left in 2025—at Nashville and Milwaukee—he could add more wins to his tally, potentially breaking records for most victories in a season. For Sainz, the F1 calendar continues with high-pressure events, including the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, where he’ll aim to build on his solid season. But beyond individual pursuits, their mutual respect highlights the unity in Spanish motorsport. Sainz’s “speechless” awe—manifested in his effusive praise—serves as a bridge between worlds, inspiring the next generation of racers.

As the dust settles on Portland, one thing is clear: Alex Palou’s fourth IndyCar crown isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a declaration of Spain’s enduring racing legacy. Whether he ascends to F1 or continues dominating IndyCar, Palou has etched his name in history. And with Sainz cheering from the sidelines, the debate rages on: Has Spain found its new racing king? Only time—and the roar of engines—will tell.