Alex Palou: “I love that we’re getting some heat” after hearing boos

TL;DR

Alex Palou embraces the boos from fans, indicating their desire for change in the sport. The reigning IndyCar Series champion has achieved significant success since joining Chip Ganassi Racing in 2021.

Key points

Alex Palou hears boos from fans during races
Fans are restless for change in the sport
Palou is a four-time IndyCar Series champion
He has 22 career victories
Joined Chip Ganassi Racing in 2021

Alex PalouChip Ganassi RacingIndyCar Series

Motorsport photo

, some fans can become restless for change.

And the Spaniard can hear it.

Since joining Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) in 2021, Palou has done a lot of winning. A four-time and reigning IndyCar Series champion, he’s stood on the top step of the podium 22 times, including his first oval victory in last year’s Indianapolis 500.

During the parade lap after driver introductions in last weekend’s Sonsio Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, Palou got his first taste of booing.

“It was the first time that I heard a boos, like, from multiple sections,” said Palou, 29. “And I was like, ‘All right.’ I think until now it's been very friendly, and now it's getting more towards boos.

“But I think it's good, you need to have that. We're getting booed for being successful, then we're doing the right thing.”

Alex Palou, Chip Ganassi Racing, Pato O'Ward, Arrow McLaren

Some of the interactions in press conferences suggests there could also be restlessness in the paddock toward Palou, too. Last week, Andretti Global’s Kyle Kirkwood suggested Palou had an “indicator” because most of the CGR - and its technical alliance affiliate Meyer Shank Racing - cars used the push-to-pass in the final restart at Long Beach last month. IndyCar Officiating has since updated a rule to make push-to-pass usage allowed on restarts. The eventful press conference followed another that also drew a playful back and forth with ’s Pato O’Ward.