The Formula 1 world was startled on Monday by a striking rumor; four-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou was reportedly approached by Red Bull. The Spaniard is potentially on the shortlist for the second seat. Palou did not confirm whether he is actually being considered for a contract. Former F1TV presenter and IndyCar commentator Will Buxton explains why this potential transfer would be ‘both wonderful and terrible’.
Buxton responded on social media to the news that Alex Palou might be in the picture at Red Bull. “I would find this both wonderful and terrible,” wrote the British analyst, who himself made the switch from Formula 1 to IndyCar. “For him, it would be wonderful because I think he is one of the very best drivers in open-wheel racing. He would surprise many people with the high level of IndyCar.” Palou made his debut in the American racing class in 2020. A year later, he joined top team Chip Ganassi Racing, with which he has already won four titles.
The Curse on the Second Red Bull Seat
“At the same time, I would also find it terrible,” Buxton continued. “I think there is a curse on the second Red Bull seat, one that even Alex Palou would struggle with. Moreover, I would love to see him compete on the IndyCar grid in 2026. I am curious who can challenge him for the title, and how many championships he can still win here. Given his age, there are still plenty of opportunities for him.”
In 2022, there was already talk of a possible switch to Formula 1 when Palou was linked with McLaren. Initially, he was supposed to compete for the Brits’ IndyCar team, but after a lawsuit, he remained loyal to Chip Ganassi Racing. However, he became a test and reserve driver for McLaren’s Formula 1 team, for which he completed several test sessions in Hungary, Austria, and Barcelona. During the 2022 American GP, he also drove the first free practice for the Lando Norris.
