Palou linked with Red Bull for 2026 seat, both sides deny

Alex Palou, the 28 year old four time IndyCar champion and recent Indianapolis 500 winner, was at the centre of fresh Formula 1 speculation this week after a report said Red Bull had expressed interest in him for a 2026 seat. Palou, his management and Red Bull figures have all denied any contact, leaving the story unresolved even as leading voices in the sport weighed in on whether a move would make sense for the Spaniard or the Austrian team.

IndyStar reported that Red Bull had explored the possibility of signing Palou from Chip Ganassi Racing once the 2025 IndyCar season ends, citing sources with direct knowledge of the talks. The article said exit clauses in Palou's Ganassi contract might allow a switch, though any departure would likely involve a sizeable buyout. That account has not been corroborated publicly. Palou told The Associated Press, "There has been nothing, nothing at all. We have heard nothing from anyone." His manager, Roger Yasukawa, also told Marca, "We have not talked to, nor have been contacted by any F1 team about Alex."

Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko and Chip Ganassi described the rumours as unfounded, while the team owner called suggestions of an...