MCLAUGHLIN BECOMES THE HUNTED

IndyCar Series action returns this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway, three-time Supercars champion and Kiwi Scott McLaughlin topping the standings after his breakthrough win at St. Petersburg.

McLaughlin scored his first win in the open wheeler series from pole position, demonstrating considerable improvement from his rookie season.

With his confidence brimming, could the Scotty Mac go back-to-back in Texas? History is on his side as he recorded a season-best second-place finish at the venue last season.

Reigning champion Alex Palou was likewise impressive in the season opener, finishing runner-up after a late-race attack.

The 24-year-old Chip Ganassi Racing driver is on top of his game and will be looking to register his first victory of the season after scoring three in 2021.

Aussie Will Power started his campaign in style by earning a spot on the podium at St. Petersburg. The Team Penske veteran has not enjoyed successful visits to Texas Motor Speedway in recent times, but he has taken wins there in 2011 and 2017.

At the other end of the field, 2021 highflyers Josef Newgarden and Pato O’Ward will be looking to bounce back from disappointing starts, the pair finishing 16th and 12th respectively in Round 1.

O’Ward is in the spotlight off the track too currently, as the word continues to spread that he may be looking to exit Arrow McLaren despite having a contract that runs through to 2024.

Regardless, the Mexican driver scored a win at this venue last season and will be amongst the frontrunners again.

There are plenty of other drivers to watch – names such as Colton Herta, Romain Grosjean, Jimmie Johnson and Helio Castroneves will all be vying to fight at the front of the field.

Watch all of the IndyCar action live and on demand on Stan Sport.

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