Home > Racing Events & Competitions > Indianapolis 500 race highlights

Indianapolis 500 race highlights

Indianapolis 500 race highlights

The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most prestigious and famous auto races in the world, held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway track in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

The basic rules of the Indianapolis 500

  • Distance. The Indianapolis 500 race is 500 miles (about 805 kilometres), which is 200 laps around the 2.5-mile (4 kilometre) track.
  • Race Format. The race is held on an oval track and is part of the IndyCar racing series. Competitors compete for prizes on a high-speed track, reaching speeds in excess of 200 mph (about 322 km/h).
  • Qualifying. Before the race, qualifying heats are held where drivers attempt to set the best time for one lap. This determines their starting row for the race.
  • Race Start. The race starts with a mass start where all drivers line up on the start line.
  • Pit stops. Drivers must make several pit stops during the race to refuel, change tyres and make other adjustments to their cars.
  • Winner. The winner is determined by the first person to cross the finish line after completing all 200 laps.
  • Traditions and Awards. The winner of the Indianapolis 500 is honoured with the Milk Bottle kiss. Other prestigious awards and prizes are also presented.
  • Safety. Each rider is required to wear a special helmet, safety suit and other safety equipment. The track is also equipped with safety systems, including barriers and speed reduction systems in case of accidents.

These conditions and rules make the Indianapolis 500 one of the most exciting and dangerous races in the world, attracting the attention of millions of fans from all over the world.

Who participates in the Indianapolis 500

The Indianapolis 500 features professional drivers from a variety of motorsports series, including the IndyCar Series, NASCAR and other world racing championships. Here are the major categories of drivers that participate in the Indianapolis 500:

IndyCar Series

The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most prestigious and important races in the IndyCar Series, one of the largest auto racing championships in the world. The drivers of this series make up the bulk of the race’s competitors.

Professional racing teams

The race features teams competing in the IndyCar Series and other professional racing series. They represent various car builders and sponsors.

Stars from other series

Occasionally, drivers from other motorsports series such as NASCAR, Formula 1 and others may participate in the Indianapolis 500 as invited guests or temporary participants.

Veterans and Rookies

The race is open to both seasoned drivers with a wealth of experience and rookies for whom the Indianapolis 500 may be one of the first major starts in their careers.

Local and International Racers

The race attracts participants from all over the world, including local American racers and representatives from various countries.

Participation in the Indianapolis 500 represents a significant event for drivers, and winning the race is recognised as one of the most prestigious in the world of motorsport.