Laguna Seca played host to a dramatic 2026 IndyCar season finale, where Scott McLaughlin delivered a masterclass, leading 87 of 95 laps to claim his first win of the season.
Starting from pole, McLaughlin bolted into the lead and never looked back. He briefly lost the top spot during pit stops but quickly reclaimed it each time. After taking the checkered flag, he celebrated with donuts on the front straight, much to the delight of the packed grandstands.
Behind him, Kyle Kirkwood finished second, securing runner-up in the championship standings. Alexander Rossi rounded out the podium, making a statement after a challenging year.
Meanwhile, already-crowned champion Alex Palou struggled for grip throughout the race and faded to eighth by the time the checkered flag waved—a disappointing end to an otherwise stellar season.
The only caution period came on the first lap when Sting Ray Robb rear-ended rookie Dennis Hauger, sending the Norwegian spinning into the wall. Despite the incident, Hauger still clinched the Rookie of the Year title based on other results.
The race brought a grueling, month-long stretch to a close. Drivers now enjoy a well-deserved break before returning to action in St. Petersburg in early March.
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