Scott Dixon, six-time IndyCar champion and 2008 Indianapolis 500 winner, reflected on his 2024 season, his continued drive for success, and the challenges of competing at the highest level. Despite winning multiple races and remaining a championship contender, Dixon expressed frustration over his performance at the Indy 500, a race he holds in high regard. Looking ahead, he remains determined to secure another victory at the Brickyard while maintaining his consistency across the season.
A tough 2024 season for Scott Dixon
Speaking to media including Pit Debrief, Dixon acknowledged the ups and downs of the 2024 season, highlighting the competitiveness of the IndyCar grid.
Superb victories at Long Beach [another fuel saving masterclass] and Detroit saw him right in the hunt in the first half of the season. However, unreliability and mistakes from all parties as the season drew to a close ultimately saw him finish only P6 in the standings, 78 points off champion Alex Palou.
“The series just gets tougher every year, and while we had some great results, there were definitely areas where we could have done better.
“It’s about fine margins in this sport, and that’s what keeps it exciting. You know, sometimes you get everything right, and sometimes it just doesn’t work out.”
The New Zealander credited his Chip Ganassi Racing team for their relentless effort.
“The team has been incredible all season. The level of preparation and execution we bring is second to none, and that’s what allows us to stay in the fight year after year. Everyone works so hard behind the scenes, and I’m just grateful to be part of such a strong organisation.”
“When you don’t win it, it hurts”
Dixon was candid about his disappointment at the Indy 500, a race that continues to be a key focus for him. The Chevy-powered cars were ultimately too fast towards the end of last year’s race, finishing P3 with a very, very late pass on Alexander Rossi.
“It’s the one race that sticks with you the most. When you don’t win it, it hurts—no matter how many times you’ve been in contention.
“We gave it everything, but it just didn’t fall our way last year. Indy is such a unique challenge, and you have to be perfect in every aspect.”
He remains determined to add another Indy 500 win to his resume. Although he’s been a contender so often, Dixon has only won it once.
“Every year, you come back with the same hunger. Winning at Indy is unlike anything else in this sport, and I know we have what it takes to get back to Victory Lane. It’s just about putting all the pieces together and making sure we execute when it counts.”
Dixon’s IndyCar future
Despite being one of the most experienced drivers on the grid, Dixon emphasised that his passion for racing is as strong as ever.
“I still love what I do. The competition, the challenge—it’s what drives me. As long as I feel I can compete at the highest level, I’ll keep pushing. I don’t think you ever lose that drive when you’re a racer.”
As Dixon prepares for the 2025 season, his focus remains on consistency and improvement.
“We’ll go back, analyse everything, and find ways to be even better. That’s what this team does. We don’t settle, and that’s why we’ve been able to fight for championships year after year. You always have to be looking forward and figuring out how to improve, and that’s exactly what we’ll do.”
