Alex Palou, a three-time IndyCar champion and one of the biggest stars of the American single-seater circuit, has indicated he has no interest in a Formula 1 venture with Cadillac. The 28-year-old Spaniard, who has been living and racing in the US for years, thus closes the door on a move to General Motors’ upcoming Formula 1 project. Cadillac is set to debut on the grid in 2026, but has yet to appoint drivers.
Despite his current ties with Honda through the Chip Ganassi Racing team, Alex Palou was mentioned as a potential candidate for the American Formula 1 team, which aims to join under the Cadillac flag from 2026. His success in IndyCar and his popularity in the United States made him a logical choice for this new – and quintessentially American – racing team. However, Palou does not see a future in Formula 1 in his path.
‘No Need for Change’
“Everyone knows I tried everything to get into Formula 1,” Alex Palou explained in an interview with Racer. “I went all in. It wasn’t just: ‘I’m trying a bit.’ I really went all in. But it didn’t work.” The 28-year-old Palou went through the European junior program towards Formula 1 in his younger years, including a season in Formula 3 and Super Formula, before finding his groove in IndyCar. Since his move to the American series, he has achieved great success, with three championships in four years.
“I’ll put it this way: I don’t want to go there (Formula 1),” Palou clarified. “I had a half chance – or maybe more a ten percent chance – and it didn’t work out. That’s fine. I’m glad I got a great opportunity in IndyCar, and it’s going well. I haven’t had any contact with Formula 1 teams. I’m not looking for change.” In the current season, Palou is once again heading for a title. Thanks to four victories in five races, he has built a comfortable lead in the standings. However, one crown jewel is still missing from his resume – the prestigious Indy 500. With the 109th edition on the horizon, he will soon make a sixth attempt to win it.
