Motorsport Picks: The top 10 IndyCar drivers of 2024

Alex Palou securing his third IndyCar Series title in 2024 would deem him worthy of such a list, but who else stands out as the best 10 drivers of the series this year?

The 2024 IndyCar Season has concluded, crowning Alex Palou as its champion for a third time in just five seasons. And all while Palou was fighting for a three-time champion finish, the rest of the season filled itself out with enough intrigue, adding in drama and controversy, along with the complexities of the long-awaited hybrid system. But in the end, it was a stunning display of racing — demonstrating why this series is considered one of the best in open-wheel racing in the country.

Now, Palou may have topped IndyCar’s 2024 standings,  but where does he stand in Motorsport’s rankings? Our esteemed IndyCar writer, Joey Barnes, gives us his top 10 drivers of the 2024 season.

The 2024 IndyCar season has been nothing short of exhilarating, with intense competition, stunning overtakes, and surprising comebacks from some of the sport’s biggest names. From veteran champions to emerging stars, this year’s grid showcases the depth of talent and the relentless pursuit of greatness in open-wheel racing. As the season draws to a close, it’s time to look at the top 10 drivers of 2024 who have defined the year with their skill, resilience, and dominance on the track.

1. Alex Palou – Chip Ganassi Racing

It’s no surprise that Alex Palou tops the list for 2024. The reigning 2023 champion has maintained his incredible form, combining smooth driving with an ability to excel in both street circuits and ovals. His consistency has been unmatched this season, with several wins and podium finishes that once again put him at the forefront of the title fight. Palou’s sharp racecraft and ability to stay cool under pressure have made him a dominant force, proving that his 2023 title was no fluke. He has firmly established himself as one of the modern greats in IndyCar.

2. Josef Newgarden – Team Penske

The ever-competitive Josef Newgarden continues to be a perennial title contender. After narrowly missing out on the championship last year, Newgarden has returned stronger in 2024, showcasing his experience and determination to add another title to his collection. His raw pace and mastery on ovals have been highlights, particularly with commanding victories at iconic tracks like Indianapolis and Texas. Newgarden’s tireless work ethic and relentless pursuit of perfection keep him in the upper echelon of the sport, consistently battling for wins throughout the season.

3. Scott Dixon – Chip Ganassi Racing

Even at 43 years old, Scott Dixon remains one of the most formidable drivers in IndyCar. The six-time champion continues to defy age and expectations with his performance in 2024. Dixon’s ability to extract every bit of performance from his car, regardless of conditions or track type, is legendary. His consistency, racecraft, and knack for strategy have kept him in the championship mix yet again. It’s clear that Dixon is far from slowing down, and he remains a serious contender for wins and podiums every weekend.

4. Colton Herta – Andretti Autosport

Colton Herta has truly come into his own in 2024. The young American driver has shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons, but this year he has been more composed, more consistent, and more dangerous to the frontrunners. With a few spectacular wins, including a thrilling victory at the Long Beach Grand Prix, Herta has demonstrated that he has the maturity and speed to challenge the top guns. His ability to adapt and improve has been key to his rise, and it seems only a matter of time before he becomes a regular championship contender.

5. Pato O’Ward – Arrow McLaren

Pato O’Ward has continued to make waves in 2024, solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting and aggressive drivers on the grid. The Mexican star’s partnership with Arrow McLaren has borne fruit, with several strong performances and podium finishes. While consistency has sometimes been an issue, O’Ward’s sheer speed and ability to pull off daring overtakes have made him a fan favorite. His determination to fight for the championship is evident, and when he’s on form, he’s one of the most electrifying drivers in the series.

6. Marcus Ericsson – Chip Ganassi Racing

After his Indianapolis 500 victory in 2022, Marcus Ericsson has continued to grow as a formidable presence in IndyCar. In 2024, Ericsson has been a key player in the championship battle, combining his steady racecraft with a newfound aggressiveness that has seen him secure multiple podiums. His smooth driving style and intelligent approach to races have earned him respect across the paddock, and he remains a consistent threat on both road courses and ovals.

7. Rinus VeeKay – Ed Carpenter Racing

Rinus VeeKay has emerged as a breakout star in 2024. The Dutch driver’s raw talent and aggressive style have led to some spectacular performances, including a stunning victory at Barber Motorsports Park. While still developing as a complete driver, VeeKay has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, consistently outperforming expectations with a team that isn’t always at the top of the field. His future in IndyCar looks incredibly bright, and he’s quickly becoming a fan favorite with his fearless driving.

8. Will Power – Team Penske

Will Power remains a stalwart of the IndyCar grid, and in 2024, he’s once again proven his place among the elite. The 2014 champion and multiple race winner continues to showcase his incredible pace on road courses, coupled with his vast experience and technical knowledge. While Power hasn’t been in the thick of the championship fight as often this year, his ability to deliver top-tier performances on any given weekend makes him a driver no one can overlook.

9. Romain Grosjean – Andretti Autosport

Romain Grosjean’s transition to IndyCar has been one of the most inspiring stories in recent years, and in 2024, the former F1 driver continues to impress. While his season has been marred by some inconsistency and a few unlucky incidents, Grosjean’s pace and racecraft have been undeniable. He’s had several standout performances, particularly on street circuits, and his passion for the sport shines through every time he takes to the track. Grosjean’s journey from F1 to IndyCar has captured the hearts of many fans, and he remains a key figure in the series.

10. Felix Rosenqvist – Arrow McLaren

Felix Rosenqvist rounds out the top 10 with a solid 2024 campaign. The Swedish driver has been quietly consistent this year, often flying under the radar while delivering strong results for Arrow McLaren. His technical skill and adaptability have made him a valuable asset to the team, and his ability to compete on both street circuits and ovals has helped him stay in the mix. Rosenqvist’s steady performances have earned him a place among the top drivers, and he’s proven that he’s capable of competing with the best.

Conclusion

The 2024 IndyCar season has been a thrilling showcase of talent, with both veterans and rising stars making their mark. From Alex Palou’s continued dominance to the fearless performances of drivers like Colton Herta and Pato O’Ward, this year’s grid has been one of the most competitive in recent memory. As we look forward to the next season, these top 10 drivers have set the stage for even more intense battles and unforgettable moments in the world of IndyCar racing.