On Sunday, August 10, 2025, Dennis Hauger strengthened his hold on the INDY NXT by Firestone championship by winning the Grand Prix of Portland at Portland International Raceway in Oregon. Hauger edged out his main rival, Caio Collet, by less than a second, extending his points lead as the series enters the final stretch.
Driving the No. 28 Nammo car for Andretti Global, Hauger crossed the finish line just 0.9353 seconds ahead of Collet’s No. 76 HMD Motorsports entry. This victory expanded Hauger’s championship margin to 54 points, a considerable advantage with only two races remaining, both on oval tracks at the Milwaukee Mile on August 24 and in Nashville on August 31.
Race Dynamics and Key Moments on Challenging Circuit
Hauger’s win marked his sixth of the season, although it was his second since early June, following a strong start with wins in four of the first five contests. Despite already securing the Rookie of the Year accolade with this success, Hauger remains focused on claiming the overall championship.
The Portland track’s tricky Turn 1-2 complex played a decisive role in the race outcome. Pole-sitter Caio Collet led the pack at the start, with Myles Rowe, who began on the front row as well, challenging him aggressively on the outside entering Turn 1. Collet moved slightly left to block Rowe’s run, unintentionally leaving a gap on the inside.
Hauger, starting third, seized this opportunity and, combined with both Collet and Rowe braking too deep and running wide through Turn 1, he maneuvered inside Collet to take the lead in Turn 2. Hauger then controlled the race pace over the 35 laps, successfully managing his lead and fending off several attacks from Collet.
Drivers Reflect on the Crucial Battle for the Lead
“It’s a great day for the championship,”
Hauger said.
An awesome day – back on top. Hopefully we can have a good weekend in Milwaukee and clinch the title there, as well.”
“I was looking at Myles, and I think we both ended up a little bit deep (in Turn 1),”
Collet admitted.
“I didn’t see Dennis coming on the outside. I just misjudged it and gave Dennis the opportunity for a great move.”
“I did a mistake at the most crucial part of the championship, so very frustrating for myself. But we’ll keep pushing.”
Podium Finishers and Team Performances at the Portland Race
Myles Rowe finished third in the No. 99 Abel/Force Indy car, securing his fifth podium of the season, while teammate Callum Hedge achieved a strong fourth place in the No. 17 Abel Motorsports machine. Salvador de Alba rounded out the top five, driving the No. 27 Grupo Indi car for Andretti Global.
The combined performance of the Andretti and Abel teams stands out, each placing two drivers among the top five finishers, reflecting impressive team efforts in this competitive event.
Championship Outlook and Upcoming Races
Hauger’s tactical drive, including skilled use of the Push to Pass system to counter Collet’s charges, showcased his maturity and racecraft under the pressure of a championship battle. With challenging oval events at Milwaukee and Nashville upcoming, Hauger and Collet remain the sole contenders capable of winning the season title.
As the INDY NXT by Firestone season nears its conclusion, the tension heightens with the championship lead hanging by a narrow margin. The next race on August 24 at the Milwaukee Mile will be critical as both drivers seek to gain or maintain an advantage before the finale in Nashville.
