The IndyCar qualifying classification in Portland left a duel of millimeter precision. Felix Rosenqvist took pole position by just 19 thousandths of a second over Álex Palou, the smallest margin of the entire season. The Swede dominated all three elimination rounds and will start from the front row, while the Spaniard, who was seeking his seventh pole of the year, will have to settle for second position. A result that promises an intense race.
The technical detail that decided pole at the Portland circuit 🏁
On a mixed circuit like Portland, the key was managing the temperature of the Firestone tires on the final attempt. Rosenqvist found the optimal grip point in the middle sector, where tenths are gained. Palou, for his part, reported some understeer in turn 7, which cost him those final 19 thousandths. Telemetry data shows the Swede was more aggressive in the braking zone of the chicane, while the Catalan prioritized exit from the slow corners. Details that make the difference.
Almost pole, almost perfect: the drama of the thousandths for Palou ⏱️
If Álex Palou blinks hard, he might still see the checkered flag of his qualifying lap. Being 19 thousandths off pole is like losing a sprint by the thickness of an eyebrow. The Spaniard should already be used to these scares, although he usually gets his revenge in the race. Meanwhile, Rosenqvist celebrates as if he had won the title, although he knows the race is another story. In Portland, the margin between glory and almost is so thin that even the clock seems to have a sense of humor.