Kyle Kirkwood Secures Second Win of Season

Last Updated on February 27, 2026 by WWTR

Photo by Penske Entertainment: Joe Skibinski

DETROIT (June 2, 2025) – Kyle Kirkwood remains the only driver to beat Alex Palou this season as the Florida native secured his second win of 2025 at the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix on June 1. 

“I mean, we were really good on restarts for some reason. I couldn’t tell you why. But our pace on restarts was phenomenal,” said Kirkwood. “I knew that because of that I had to get by everyone that was in front of me within the first five laps, which I did on the initial start after I got passed by a guy or two, and once again on that restart, and yeah, fortunately it paid off.”

Kirkwood led 48 laps on his way to victory, climbing from third place and taking advantage of 19 caution laps in the 100-lap race. Kirkwood was able to capitalize on restarts and on a preferred pit strategy to get ahead of the field.  

In a hard-fought battle, Santino Ferrucci landed his best finish of his career by crossing the line in second place. This podium for Ferrucci was hard-earned as he started deep in the field in 21st, but with a great strategy, he made his way to the podium. 

“Honestly, the strategy plays into everything that we do, especially at road and street courses it’s very tough, and I can’t thank the team enough. This is more deserving of them than it is even of me,” said Ferrucci. “We probably drove to 11th minus the strategy just running our race.”

With winding and narrow streets, passing remains limited and collisions are more likely: challenges that became clear in Detroit. Due to these challenges, championship leader Palou’s race ended early on Lap 72 after contact with David Malukas. 

Through seven races this season, Kirkwood remains the only driver to knock Palou off the top step of the podium. While both drivers have success on road and street courses, the next challenge approaches with the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 at World Wide Technology Raceway on June 15.  

WWT Raceway brings new excitement in 2025 with competitive oval racing under the lights, airing in primetime on Father’s Day. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit wwtraceway.com or call the ticket office at (618) 215-8888 Ext. 1. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Payton Buschhorn | Public Relations & Media Manager | 314.517.5125 | pbuschhorn@wwtraceway.com