Alex Palou leads the way in Detroit opening practice

It is exactly what we have come to expect from a champion. Alex Palou proved once again why he is leading the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, storming to the top of the time sheets during Friday's opening practice for the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear. He clocked a best lap of 1 minute, 2.7722 seconds in his No. 10 HRC Chip Ganassi Racing Honda on the intense, nine-turn street circuit.

Palou’s performance is a statement, especially on this tricky 1.645-mile track. The competition is not far behind, however. Reigning Detroit winner Kyle Kirkwood put his No. 27 Sam’s Club Honda in second with a 1:02.7914, leading a strong showing for Andretti Global. His teammate, the veteran Will Power, followed closely in third at 1:02.9433 in the No. 26 TWG AI Honda.

The field remains tightly packed as the weekend begins. Marcus Armstrong ended the session fourth in his No. 66 Meyer Shank Racing w/Curb Agajanian Honda at 1:03.1743, while Pato O’Ward took fifth at 1:03.1825 in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. As Palou noted, getting a clean lap here is a challenge, and with more track time scheduled for Saturday, the fight is only just beginning.