The IndyCar Collection has entered a brand new period following final week’s announcement that FOX Company has bought a one-third stake in Penske Leisure, the mum or dad firm of IndyCar and the long-lasting Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Whereas there are nonetheless many unknowns in regards to the long-term impression of the transfer, FOX stepping in as a co-owner — after already becoming a member of because the unique broadcaster this season — indicators a dedication to shaping the sequence’ future. The announcement outlined ambitions akin to renewed concentrate on racing innovation, immersive content material methods, enhanced digital platforms, and turning drivers into family names.
Alex Palou, who has turn into the face of IndyCar by profitable three of the final 4 championships — and is on track for a fourth, probably as quickly as subsequent weekend on the Grand Prix of Portland — in addition to profitable the Indianapolis 500 final Could, believes FOX’s arrival as a part-owner is a step in the proper route.
Race winner Alex Palou, Chip Ganassi Racing
Picture by: Penske Leisure
“Sadly, I do not know precisely what that is going to do for our sport, and I do not actually know a lot about what is going on to alter, if it’ll change something,” Palou mentioned throughout a digital media session forward of the Portland occasion. “However I feel anyone as large as FOX, and with the small time that they have been with IndyCar and the way a lot love they’ve confirmed us and the way a lot work and funding that they’ve put within the sequence — like even earlier than we began the season — it was loopy. It was unbelievable.”
Increasing curiosity within the sport
Palou emphasised that FOX’s involvement will assist prolong the game’s attain because it seeks to draw new followers, each to the racetrack and to tv screens.
“I feel having a companion like this — they don’t want to determine learn how to attain extra individuals; they already can. So having somebody in your crew with that form of attain who solely wants to search out methods to do it appropriately and make sense for each IndyCar and their enterprise — I feel it’ll be enormous.”
The Chip Ganassi Racing driver backed his pleasure about FOX’s elevated involvement within the sport by acknowledging the media firm’s advertising efforts in 2025, the primary 12 months of its unique network-only broadcast deal for IndyCar races.
“I feel that is all we want. It will take, clearly, a while, however I feel all people will agree that all the pieces FOX has completed to advertise us — I’m certain you’ve seen it. You go to any gas station and it isn’t arduous to see one of many IndyCar adverts from FOX pop up. Additionally, being featured throughout main sporting occasions on TV virtually each weekend — it is nice.”
“Yeah, I can’t wait to see what they’ll do. I am actually glad to see that, and I’ve full belief and full confidence that they’re going to do effectively for our sport.”
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