Montoya loses IndyCar title in dramatic final race
It was a shocking season finale at the GoPro Grand Prix of Sonoma, California. Bogota-born Montoya, who had held the Series lead since the first race, was pipped to the post for the IndyCar Series 2015 title by Ganassi rival, Scott Dixon.
It was a perfect storm for Dixon, who grabbed the victory he needed and also saw Montoya slump to sixth on the day – losing the title by a whisker. In the end, Dixon’s victory brought him from third place in the Series to joint first with 556 points – tying with his Colombian rival. Tiebreaker rules meant it was the Australian who secured the title.
The Aussie had three wins this season, while soon-to-be 40-year-old Montoya only took the chequered flag on two occasions.
Dixon also benefited from the awarding of double points in the final race.
Montoya was understandably disappointed with the final result, saying that they had a great season, “We just had a disappointing finale.” He also criticised the awarding of double points for the last race. “Dixon had a shit season all year and had one good race, and we paid the penalty.”
Colombia did take one crown home from the IndyCar Series, as Colombian-American racer Gabby Chaves received the Rookie of the Year award. The 22-year-old rolo showed his talents during the season and is now on everyone’s radar for 2016. “It was a fun season and I look forward to what 2016 has to bring”, he declared. He might be on the lookout for a change of teams, as he’s yet to confirm a new deal with Bryan Hertha Autosport.
The end of the season was also marked by the tragic death of Justin Wilson. The English driver had been hit by a piece of debris from Sage Karam’s car after a small accident at Pocono, during the previous race. The injury proved to be fatal.
The final race in Sonoma brings the 2015 season to an end, but fans will be pleased to see the circus back on March 13 at the Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg in Florida. It’s already confirmed that Juan Pablo Montoya will be starting for his nearly victorious Chevrolet of Team Penske.
By Rafael Ortiz