Palou Closes In on 2026 IndyCar Title After Portland Masterclass

Palou Dominates in Portland to Edge Closer to the Crown

Alex Palou's remarkable 2026 IndyCar campaign reached new heights in Portland, where the championship leader secured his sixth victory of the season. With only five rounds remaining in the championship, Palou has established a massive 110-point cushion at the top of the standings, leaving his rivals with a mountain to climb.

Palou now sits comfortably on 510 points, making him the absolute favorite to secure yet another IndyCar championship as the season enters its final stretch.

The Battle for Second Intensifies

While Palou appears to be cruising toward the title, the battle for the runner-up spot is highly contested. Kyle Kirkwood has reclaimed second place in the standings, moving eight points clear of David Malukas. Kirkwood sits at 400 points, with Malukas close behind on 392.

Christian Lundgaard remains in striking distance in fourth place with 375 points, holding a comfortable 20-point margin over Pato O'Ward in fifth.

Power Climbs the Order; Rookie Battle Heats Up

A stellar podium finish in Portland gave veteran Will Power a much-needed boost. Power leaped from 14th to 11th in the championship table, now sitting just four points behind Scott Dixon.

In the Rookie of the Year standings, Dennis Hauger continues to lead the class. Hauger sits 20th overall with 174 points, maintaining a 27-point advantage over Caio Collet, with Mick Schumacher just one point further back in 24th.

2026 IndyCar Championship Standings (After Round 13)

| Pos. | Driver | Points | |---|---|---| | 1 | Alex Palou | 510 | | 2 | Kyle Kirkwood | 400 | | 3 | David Malukas | 392 | | 4 | Christian Lundgaard | 375 | | 5 | Pato O'Ward | 355 | | 6 | Felix Rosenqvist | 338 | | 7 | Josef Newgarden | 335 | | 8 | Scott McLaughlin | 321 | | 9 | Marcus Ericsson | 278 | | 10 | Rinus VeeKay | 269 | | 11 | Will Power | 256 | | 12 | Scott Dixon | 252 | | 13 | Graham Rahal | 236 | | 14 | Kyffin Simpson | 236 | | 15 | Marcus Armstrong | 230 |