IndyCar champion SLAMS 'fake' new team reports

Photo: © IMAGO

IndyCar News

IndyCar champion SLAMS 'fake' new team reports

Alex Palos has been linked with a stunning switch

Sam Cook

Friday 16 August 2024 21:15

Two-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou has once again had to shut down sensational reports of a potential switch to Formula 1.

Palou has been linked to the sport ever since he took part in a practice session with McLaren in 2022, before being named the team's reserve driver for the 2023 season.

Article continues under video

However, in August 2023, Palou told McLaren racing CEO Zak Brown that he had 'no intention of honoring his contract' with McLaren, and instead opted to continue racing with his Chip Ganassi team having lost faith that McLaren would ever land him a full-time seat in F1.

Following this, McLaren Racing and Arrow McLaren sued Palou for nearly $23 million in an attempt to recoup investments made in the Spaniard.

Alex Palou is a two-time IndyCar Series champion

Audi have already signed Nico Hulkenberg

Palou's F1 ambitions

Audi are reportedly looking for a statement signing to partner the German, and it's thought that a big name from the world of motorsport like Palou could boost their bid to become a big player in F1.

However, Palou has now responded to these rumours, suggesting that there's no truth that he may be looking to ditch IndyCar for F1.

"It’s all fake. I know you cannot take my word, but I promise," Palou told IndyStar.

"It’s all fake. I’ve had no contacts with Audi. Zero.

"I’m not going to say much, but I’m not trying to go. I tried. I got a small taste, and it was fun, and I learned, but it didn’t happen, so I’m good.

"I’m not desperately seeing the news there and sending an email like, ‘Hey, I know we’re not in contact, but can we talk?’ I’m good, I’m good."

McLaren Alex Palou Zak Brown Arrow McLaren