Dixon Calls for IndyCar Testing as Championship Challenge Intensifies
Scott Dixon, six-time IndyCar champion, has expressed concerns over the limited testing opportunities in the series, which he believes have hindered his performance against teammate Alex Palou. Palou, who secured a staggering eight victories this season, is on track for a fourth title in five years, leaving Dixon grappling to match his pace.
Despite a notable race win at Mid-Ohio, Dixon’s struggles have become evident since the introduction of hybrid units at the midpoint of 2024. In the subsequent 24 races, he has only started ahead of Palou four times, managing just two on road courses.
Speaking at a private test at Nashville Superspeedway, Dixon underscored the importance of track time: "There’s no substitute for track time, and we barely get to test anymore," he noted. The veteran indicated that quick adaptation to the hybrid’s effects on car handling is essential. "Returning to tracks where we can implement what we learned… makes it a lot easier to hit the ground running."
While Dixon’s experience should ideally provide an advantage in testing restrictions, he contends that the lack of time in the cockpit has exacerbated his adaptation to the current car format. “This car suits people with very smooth driving styles and that’s not me,” he acknowledged, adding, “More testing for me would be very beneficial.”
Dixon remarked on the challenges of modifying his driving style in the simulator, emphasizing the instinctual nature of his current technique. “When you have to think about something that has been instinctive… you’re not going to be as quick,” he explained.
Despite recent development in his driving style and car setup, Dixon noted the need for a cohesive qualifying performance to maximize his potential. "We’ve definitely improved the car and my driving style; we just haven’t pieced it together in qualifying that well," he stated, hinting at optimism for future races. "Just wish we had more on-track test time so we could catch up quicker."
As the season progresses toward its conclusion, Dixon remains focused on overcoming the gap to his dominant teammate, with hopes that additional testing could aid in his pursuit.
