Felix Rosenqvist will have the best view in the field when IndyCar takes the green flag at Portland this afternoon, as he prepares to lead the field from pole position.
Rosenqvist put together a strong qualifying performance to earn the top starting spot, placing himself ahead of championship powerhouse Alex Palou, who will start alongside him in second.
Starting up front could be a major advantage at Portland International Raceway. The opening turn has produced plenty of chaos over the years, making Rosenqvist’s ability to control the start even more important. A clean getaway could allow him to avoid the trouble behind and immediately settle into his race.
But keeping the lead will not be easy.
Palou will be right next to Rosenqvist on the front row, while Will Power and Marcus Ericsson make up Row 2. Rinus VeeKay and Kyffin Simpson will start fifth and sixth, putting several potential contenders within striking distance from the opening lap.
For Rosenqvist, the pole gives him a major opportunity to turn Saturday’s qualifying speed into a victory.
He has shown throughout his IndyCar career that he can be one of the fastest drivers in the field over a single lap. Now the challenge will be maintaining that pace throughout an entire race while dealing with tire wear, pit strategy and whatever Portland throws at the field.
With Palou starting alongside him and several proven winners close behind, Rosenqvist will have pressure from the moment the green flag falls.
But heading into Sunday afternoon, everyone will be chasing him.
Felix Rosenqvist has the pole, clean air and a chance to turn a strong weekend in Portland into a trip to victory lane.
It’s Felix, the future McLaren man, up front.
