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Alex Zanardi Honored with Iconic Lightning Bolt Return on No. 10

Highlights

  • Lightning bolt returns on No. 10 Honda to honor Alex Zanardi
  • Tribute coincides with 30th anniversary of Zanardi’s “The Pass”
  • Alex Palou to drive No. 10 DHL Honda at Laguna Seca
  • Palou leads championship by 91 points before Milwaukee Mile races
  • Zanardi passed away in 2026, remembered for racing and resilience
  • DHL and CGR partner to celebrate 15 years in INDYCAR

Chip Ganassi Racing and DHL restore the lightning bolt livery on the No. 10 Honda for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES finale at Laguna Seca, September 4–6, honoring Alex Zanardi.

The design recalls CGR’s four-title run from 1996–99, headlined by Zanardi, and coincides with 30 years since Jimmy Vasser sealed CGR’s first crown and Honda’s maiden INDYCAR championship.

Alex Palou will drive the No. 10 DHL Lightning Bolt Honda. He has three Laguna Seca wins, including back-to-back victories, and podiums in all five CGR starts at the venue.

CGR No. 10 DHL Lightning Bolt Honda livery at Laguna Seca in tribute to Alex Zanardi
Image Credit: Yahoo Sports

Palou leads the championship by 91 points entering the Milwaukee Mile doubleheader. Risk management that weekend is central to CGR’s push for a record 18th INDYCAR title before the finale.

Palou holds a 91-point lead entering Milwaukee, with CGR eyeing a record 18th INDYCAR championship.

The tribute peaks on September 6, the 30th anniversary of Zanardi’s audacious “Pass” at the Corkscrew, the move that clinched the 1996 finale victory and secured Rookie of the Year.

The lightning bolt returns at Laguna Seca on the 30th anniversary of Zanardi’s “The Pass.”

DHL marks 15 years in INDYCAR with the collaboration. CEO Greg Hewitt calls the livery recognition of Zanardi’s determination and a timely celebration of Palou’s season at a meaningful venue.

“This tribute honors Zanardi’s passion and determination,” says DHL’s Greg Hewitt.

Zanardi’s legacy extends beyond results. After a 2001 accident cost both legs, he returned, won four World Touring Car Championship races, raced endurance events, and became a decorated Paralympic cyclist.

Zanardi died on May 1, 2026, aged 59, and remains a benchmark for resilience across motorsport and para sport.

Zanardi’s resilience, from WTCC wins to Paralympic golds, underpins the tribute’s meaning.

The livery connects past and present, reinforcing CGR’s culture and Honda’s continuity. It offers a unifying narrative as Palou balances tribute pressure with the practical demands of a title run.

Practice starts Friday, September 4, with the finale on Sunday, September 6. Expect strong fan engagement as Palou chases the championship carrying Zanardi’s emblem on CGR’s No. 10.

Visual Summary



10


30th Anniversary

Lightning Strikes Twice

Alex Zanardi‘s lightning bolt returns to #10 Honda
for Laguna Seca’s season finale, honoring his legendary “Corkscrew” pass — and unforgettable resilience.

91
point lead
3
Wins at Laguna
18th
Championship?

Alex Zanardi inspired millions:
4x Paralympic golds after catastrophic crash
Returned to racing with prosthetic legs
His “Pass” at the Corkscrew is INDYCAR folklore
⚡ The Bolt rides on — Palou & CGR chase history ⚡
DHL & Ganassi honor Zanardi’s spark
September 6 will bridge legends at Laguna Seca.

Brian Thompson

Brian Thompson focuses on IndyCar Series news, from qualifying speeds at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to street-course race strategy. He delivers concise feature stories and technical breakdowns on chassis setups, tire choices, and championship standings for open-wheel enthusiasts.

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Brian Thompson

Brian Thompson focuses on IndyCar Series news, from qualifying speeds at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to street-course race strategy. He delivers concise feature stories and technical breakdowns on chassis setups, tire choices, and championship standings for open-wheel enthusiasts.

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