Kirkwood's victory in Long Beach slows Palou's progress

Kyle Kirkwood scored a dominant victory this Sunday on the streets of Long Beach, California, ending Alex Palou's perfect season start. The Andretti Global driver showed superior pace from qualifying to checkered flag in the 50th running of the Acura Grand Prix.

We had everything under control from the first sessions. Qualifying went as expected and during the race we maintained our planned strategy. Keeping track position was crucial - without yellow flags it was hard to change the order if you didn't have an advantage.

Precise pace and compound management

The Florida native, driving the Honda No. 27, claimed his second Long Beach victory starting from pole position, finishing 2.6859 seconds ahead of Palou in the Honda No. 10 for Chip Ganassi Racing.

Kirkwood led 46 of 90 laps in what was the season's second consecutive caution-free race - something unseen at this 11-turn, 1.968-mile street circuit for nine years.

Firestone management as decisive factor

The choice between Firestone Firehawk compounds proved crucial. Under IndyCar rules, teams must use both tire types for at least two laps each during the race. Several drivers who started on the alternate (faster but less durable) compounds pitted within the first 10 laps.

Both Kirkwood and Palou employed similar tactics: the Spaniard pitted after lap 6 and the American on lap 7 to switch to black-sidewall tires. During pit cycles, both drivers maintained the fastest lap times.

The decisive sequence

The key moment came on lap 66. Palou made his final stop at the end of lap 64, fitting new primary tires. Kirkwood did the same one lap later, emerging with Palou right behind on warmer tires.

Despite the pressure, Kirkwood defended his position precisely. The lead became definitive on lap 69 when Kyffin Simpson pitted from first position, having run a different strategy after starting on primary tires.

Lundgaard's surprise from 12th

Christian Lundgaard completed the podium in the Chevrolet No. 7 for Arrow McLaren after passing Felix Rosenqvist in turn one with five laps remaining. His performance was particularly impressive considering he started 12th and his team worked intensely to repair his car after a qualifying incident.

These four drivers hold the same positions in the championship standings. Will Power finished fifth in the Chevrolet No. 12 for Team Penske.

Palou maintains championship lead

Though Palou couldn't match Scott Dixon's 2020 feat (winning the first three races), he maintains the championship lead with a 34-point advantage over Kirkwood.

Second place always leaves a bittersweet taste, but we must recognize Kyle and the No. 27 car had an excellent weekend. We tried several alternatives but couldn't make them work. My start wasn't good and that complicated things from the beginning.

The next NTT IndyCar Series round will be on May 4 at the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham.

Complete results of the 2025 Long Beach Grand Prix