Indy 500: Excitement Builds as 33 Cars Prepare for Historic Race

INDIANAPOLIS — The stage is set with 33 cars ready for an intense 200 laps in Sunday’s 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500, presented by Gainbridge. The race begins at 10 a.m. ET and can be viewed on FOX and the INDYCAR Radio Network.

One of the main storylines is rookie driver Robert Shwartzman, who won the NTT P1 Award but faces daunting odds. Historically, only 10 rookie drivers have won the event since its inception, with just three victories since 1967.

Veteran driver Helio Castroneves is chasing a record fifth Indianapolis 500 victory, while Josef Newgarden aims to become the first driver to win three consecutive “500s.” Castroneves will start 22nd, and Newgarden will start in 32nd place.

This year’s race features multiple contenders, including Scott McLaughlin and Pato O’Ward. McLaughlin has led the series in oval laps and is a favorite after finishing sixth in last year’s race. O’Ward, who starts third, has achieved two runner-up finishes in the past three years.

Scott Dixon, who last won the “500” in 2008, hopes to return to the winner’s circle after finishing in the top six in the last five years. Another contender, Alex Palou, looks for his first oval win but remains optimistic about his chances.

The weather is expected to be cool and cloudy, with temperatures peaking at about 65 degrees. Conditions should not be a significant factor for the racers.

In another highlight, two-time U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and discussed the parallels between racing and golf.

This year will mark the last time that the Indy 500 will host its race alongside the Monaco Grand Prix and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600, a tradition known among fans as “Motorsports Christmas.”

Palou, meanwhile, expressed his determination to win the Indianapolis 500, stating, “I feel more confident than ever before.” He aims to erase the title of being the best INDYCAR driver without a 500 win. “A second place is not good enough. It’s only first that counts,” he said.