Dixon vows to chase record title

Scott Dixon says he’s not giving up on his quest for a record-equalling seventh IndyCar championship after having to settle for third in this season’s competition.

The Kiwi was one of five drivers, including compatriot Scott McLaughlin, in with a chance of clinching the title heading into the season finale in California on September 12 (NZ time).

In the end, Dixon, pictured, was left lamenting a lack of speed as he finished 12th in the Grand Prix of Monterey at Laguna Seca and took out third spot in the championship, which was won by Australia’s Will Power.

Dixon’s Chip Ganassi Racing teammate Alex Palou won the final race and McLaughlin claimed sixth place, which was enough for him to clinch fourth overall on the points table in just his second full IndyCar season.

“We ultimately didn't have the pace,” says Dixon, the six-time champion who finished in the top three in the championship for the 14th time.

“You win some, you lose some. This team never gave up, we pushed as hard as we could. Unfortunately we ended up third.”

The 42-year-old remains keen to win again at the famous Indy 500 and to secure another championship to match AJ Foyt’s record of seven.

“It’s all that matters ... number seven and the Indy 500,” he adds. “Maybe next year, maybe the year after, we will keep pushing.

“As a group effort, everybody did a hell of a job this season. We finished every lap this year which is definitely a huge milestone in itself.

“We'll keep after it and we know exactly what we need to do in the offseason.”

Drivers’ championship – final standings

1. Will Power, 560 points
2. Josef Newgarden, 544pts
3. Scott Dixon, 521pts
4. Scott McLaughlin, 510pts
5. Alex Palou, 510 pts