Iconic lightning bolt returns: Chip Ganassi Racing and DHL to honor Alex Zanardi at Laguna Seca

Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) and DHL have teamed up to reintroduce the legendary CGR lightning bolt livery for the final race of the 2026 IndyCar season at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The #10 Honda, driven by IndyCar champion Alex Palou, will sport the iconic paint scheme in memory of late racer Alex Zanardi, who made the signature design famous during the team's four consecutive championship runs from 1996 to 1999.

The Sept. 6 race marks the 30th anniversary of "The Pass," Zanardi's famous last-lap overtake in the 1996 finale, and the 30th year since CGR's first championship, which Zanardi's teammate Jimmy Vasser won. Palou expressed his excitement to have the lightning bolt returned to the car, racing in Zanardi's honor at his home circuit.

DHL CEO Greg Hewitt praised the weekend's significance for both the team and the sponsor, emphasizing Zanardi's determination, passion, and "can-do" spirit, which align with DHL's values. Palou leads the IndyCar championship by 91 points, aiming for his 18th title with the #10 DHL Lightning Bolt Honda, which will make its debut on Friday, Sept. 3, in practice.