Kirkwood Shines at Bommarito Automotive Group 500
World Wide Technology Raceway, August 20, 2025 — In a pivotal race for the NTT IndyCar Series, Kyle Kirkwood of Andretti Global secured victory at the Bommarito Automotive Group 500, marking his third win of the season and his first on an oval track. The win further solidifies his burgeoning career as a serious contender within the series.
Kirkwood executed a strategic undercut during the final pit stops, allowing him to overtake Scott Dixon, who led prior to the caution. "We were not too happy with the car yesterday… as it got dark and cooled down, this Andretti Global Siemens No. 27 just came alive," Kirkwood remarked, praising his team’s efforts on pit lane. The race culminated in a 0.5398-second margin over Pato O’Ward, who finished second, unable to bypass Kirkwood in the final laps.
Race Highlights:
- Lap 234: Kirkwood’s early pit stop positioned him ahead of Dixon, who was the last of the frontrunners to pit.
- Fuel Strategy: Key competitors Callum Ilott and Felix Rosenqvist attempted a fuel-saving strategy that ultimately fell short, leaving Kirkwood in a commanding position for the victory.
- Final Standings:
- 1st: Kyle Kirkwood (Andretti Global)
- 2nd: Pato O’Ward (McLaren)
- 3rd: Christian Rasmussen — a remarkable comeback after overcoming a fire during his first pit stop.
- 4th: Scott Dixon
- 5th: Santino Ferrucci
Team Penske faced significant challenges, with all three drivers — Will Power, Scott McLaughlin, and Josef Newgarden — suffering mechanical issues and finishing 24th, 25th, and 27th, respectively. McLaughlin expressed disappointment for the team’s high expectations entering the race.
Kirkwood’s victory not only underscores his versatility but also aims to shift perceptions of his capabilities beyond street circuits. "I didn’t want people to think of me as just a street course guy… This is a big one. … This is huge. Massive," he stated.
Looking ahead, the IndyCar Series will head to Road America in Wisconsin for the next round on June 22, promising more competitive racing as the season progresses.
