McLaughlin grabs first win of season

Scott McLaughlin used skill and strategy to clinch his first win of the IndyCar season after taking the chequered flag at Barber Motorsports Park in the Grand Prix Alabama.

The Kiwi became the fourth different winner in as many races this campaign as his three-stop tactic helped him prevail over his main rivals who only pulled into the pits twice.

McLaughlin, who finished ahead of Romain Grosjean in the May 1 race, is now fourth in the drivers’ championship.

His compatriots Scott Dixon and Marcus Armstrong finished seventh and 11th respectively in Alabama, with the latter improving 15 places during the race and remaining the best rookie in the championship. 

McLaughlin’s fourth IndyCar career victory came after he held onto the lead after passing Grosjean on lap 72 of 90.

“I’m super pumped, I’m really happy to advance to victory lane,” said McLaughlin, pictured. “I’m super proud of my team and the car today. We had a hell of a strategy here today.

“I’m glad to get a win here for [Team] Penske. It’s been coming, we’ve been close, we just didn't quite get it the last few rounds, but we’ve got it now.”

The series returns to action at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 14.

Drivers’ championship

1. Marcus Ericsson, 130 points
2. Pato O’Ward, 127pts
3. Alex Palou, 121pts
4. Scott McLaughlin, 119pts 
5. Romain Grosjean, 115pts
Also: 8. Scott Dixon, 98pts; 17. Marcus Armstrong, 62pts