The 2025 IndyCar season showcases exciting narratives following a thrilling 2024 campaign, which featured seven distinct winners across 17 races and a championship fight that culminated in a nail-biting finale.
As the series gears up for 2025 — the inaugural season with all races broadcast on FOX — here are five key storylines that fans should keep an eye on:
1. Alex Palou’s Three-Peat Attempt
Alex Palou aims for an impressive fourth IndyCar championship and hopes to secure his third consecutive title. However, he still seeks his first victory on oval tracks, a goal that adds an intriguing layer to his quest. Off the track, Palou’s legal battles with McLaren continue to unfold in the UK courts, yet his performance on the circuit remains unaffected, solidifying his position within the Chip Ganassi Racing team.
2. The Indy 500 and Kyle Larson’s Challenge
The Indianapolis 500 consistently stands as a pivotal storyline in IndyCar, and this year marks Kyle Larson’s second attempt at the Indy 500-Coke 600 double. Following a challenging experience in 2024, where weather delays hindered his performance leading to an 18th-place finish, Larson aims for redemption. His participation not only attracts attention to the event but also raises questions about whether Josef Newgarden can achieve a three-peat. Notably, this Indy 500 will debut the new hybrid engine system, adding to the excitement.
3. Colton Herta and Pato O’Ward’s Title Chase
Colton Herta and Pato O’Ward, both talented drivers with a combined total of 16 career victories, are eager to capture their first IndyCar championships. Herta finished as the runner-up in the standings last year, while O’Ward has consistently ranked in the top five over the past five seasons. Their pursuit of the title also raises speculation about potential opportunities in Formula 1, with Herta being a candidate for the Cadillac project launching in 2026, pending his super license acquisition, and O’Ward serving as a reserve driver for McLaren.
4. Changes at Andretti Global
With Michael Andretti stepping back from daily operations, the leadership dynamics at Andretti Global will be under scrutiny. Majority owner Dan Towriss and new president Jill Gregory will guide the organization moving forward. The Andretti name is synonymous with success in IndyCar, and while expectations remain high, any decline in performance will likely attract immediate attention.
5. Scott McLaughlin’s Rise
Scott McLaughlin from New Zealand enters his fifth season in IndyCar, having finished third in the standings for the past two years. After a breakout 2024 season that included two oval wins, he is poised to challenge for the title. This year could be pivotal for McLaughlin as he aims to establish himself among the series elite and contend for the championship.
