ELKHART LAKE, Wis. — Christian Lundgaard delivered one of the most remarkable comeback victories of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season on Sunday, overcoming first-lap damage and a trip to the back of the field to win the XPEL Grand Prix at Road America Presented by AMR.
The Arrow McLaren driver appeared to be out of contention almost immediately after contact with Scott Dixon in Turn 1 damaged his front wing and forced an unscheduled pit stop on Lap 2.
After replacing the damaged wing and fitting fresh Firestone tires, Lundgaard rejoined the race at the rear of the 25-car field.
What followed was a masterclass in patience, strategy, and execution.
“I knew we had a chance,” Lundgaard said after the race. “It was all about staying in the race.”
As varying pit strategies played out across the field, Lundgaard steadily worked his way forward while the Arrow McLaren pit wall adjusted its race plan on the fly.
The turning point came in the closing stages when Lundgaard found himself back in contention after a series of pit cycles. A quick final stop by the Arrow McLaren crew helped keep him among the leaders, and he soon moved into second place behind Marcus Armstrong.
With just a few laps remaining, fate intervened.
Armstrong, who had been leading comfortably, suddenly slowed due to a mechanical issue, allowing Lundgaard to inherit the lead on Lap 52.
A late caution set up a one-lap sprint to the finish, but Lundgaard remained in control and crossed the line to secure his second victory of the season and the third INDYCAR win of his career.
David Malukas finished second for Team Penske, while Will Power completed the podium in third.
The victory marks another major milestone for Lundgaard in his first season with Arrow McLaren and further strengthens his position in the championship standings.
After the race, Lundgaard could hardly believe what his team had accomplished.
“How did we do that?” he asked over the radio moments after taking the checkered flag.
On a day that started with damage and adversity, the answer was simple: determination, strategy, and flawless execution when it mattered most.
Top 5 Finishers
1.- Christian Lundgaard
2.- David Malukas
3.- Will Powe
4.- Kyffin Simpson
5.- Alex Palou
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