Fernando Alonso’s contract extension with Aston Martin will keep him in Formula 1 beyond his 45th birthday, and there’s no indication that he’s any less competitive than when he first entered the championship in 2001. Similarly, in IndyCar, there’s another legendary driver, Scott Dixon, who is currently 43 years old and has been defying Father Time since 2001. Dixon has won four of the last six races in the series, showcasing his talent and skill.
While Alonso has faced criticism for creating friction within teams, Dixon has remained with the Chip Ganassi Racing team since 2002, earning the respect of his peers and establishing himself as one of the toughest competitors in IndyCar. With 57 wins under his belt, Dixon is closing in on the all-time IndyCar record set by AJ Foyt. He has also won six championships, proving his consistency and dominance in the sport.
Dixon’s recent victory at the Long Beach race was particularly impressive, as he had to employ a unique fuel-saving strategy to secure the win. Despite facing pressure from other drivers, Dixon managed to maintain his pace and save fuel, showcasing his expertise in this discipline. His ability to execute these strategies sets him apart from his competitors.
In a field as competitive as IndyCar, where any driver has the potential to win, Dixon’s fuel-saving skills are unparalleled. Even his teammate, Alex Palou, who has access to Dixon’s data, acknowledges that he can’t match Dixon’s mastery in this area. Dixon’s selfless nature and humble demeanor often lead to him being overlooked, but his performance on the track speaks for itself.
Dixon’s lack of top-level qualifying statistics may contribute to the misconception that he lacks dominance or peak performance. However, his ability to consistently perform well in races, regardless of his starting position, proves that he is a formidable force. His recent wins have come from mid-pack starting positions, demonstrating his ability to navigate through the field and secure victories.
Dixon’s dedication to his team and his unique skill set make him an invaluable asset. He may not always achieve flashy pole positions or lead every lap, but he consistently does things that no other driver can. His commitment to IndyCar extends beyond the present, as he plans to compete for at least another three years.
While Alonso may not have the same opportunities to consistently win races in Formula 1, Dixon’s performances in IndyCar deserve more recognition. He has the ability to perform at his peak and achieve the results he deserves. As fans of motorsport, we should appreciate and acknowledge Dixon’s talent and give him the credit he deserves.