Take a front-row seat at the Indianapolis 500, where legends of speed and strategy have made their mark. Here, each race is more than just a speed test—it’s where milliseconds determine the legends. Discover the stories of the greats and find your favorite among these titans of the Brickyard:
A.J. Foyt
Dominating the track with precision and flair, A.J. Foyt clinched the Indy 500 title four times across the decades—1961, 1964, 1967, and 1977. Foyt was the first to achieve this record, and he was known for his versatile driving skills, setting a high motorsports benchmark. His enduring impact on the race culture in Indianapolis makes him a legendary figure in the automotive legacy.
Al Unser
Al Unser distinguished himself as one of the oldest winners in the history of the Indy 500 with a win in 1987, just days before his 48th birthday. His name resonates with consistency and excellence at the event, where he claimed titles four times—1970, 1971, 1978, and 1987. Throughout two decades, his ability to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the contest kept him in top form.
Rick Mears
Celebrated for his strategic brilliance and smooth driving approach, Rick Mears secured his place in the Indy 500 annals with four wins in 1979, 1984, 1988, and 1991. Setting new standards in the field with his approach to qualifying and race day, “Rocket Rick” became a well-deserved nickname for Rick Mears. Contributions he made to team tactics and car setup innovations continue to shape the sport.
Helio Castroneves
Capturing the hearts of fans worldwide, he won the Indy 500 in 2001, 2002, 2009, and most recently in 2021. Famous for his charismatic and exuberant victory celebrations, Castroneves made history with his fourth win, joining the elite group of four-time winners after a decade-long gap.
Louis Meyer
In 1928, 1933, and 1936, Louis Meyer became the first three-time winner of the Indy 500. He introduced the tradition of drinking milk in victory lane, a custom that remains a celebrated part of the event. Meyer’s technical insights into car setup and race strategy were instrumental in shaping the tournament’s early years.
Wilbur Shaw
Beyond his motorsport achievements, Shaw played a key role in the speedway’s survival and management, eventually becoming its president. With three wins in 1937, 1939, and 1940, Wilbur Shaw was a master of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Mauri Rose
As a legendary engineer known for his resilience and engineering acumen, he won the Indy 500 three times in 1941, 1947, and 1948. His unique perspective as both driver and engineer allowed him to exploit advantages on the track. Rose’s back-to-back wins in the late 1940s solidified his reputation as a tactical and skilled racer.
Johnny Rutherford
Carving his name into Indianapolis 500 lore, “Lone Star J.R.,” cemented his legacy with three wins at the Brickyard in 1974, 1976, and 1980. But Rutherford’s impact extended far beyond his own time behind the wheel. He remained a prominent figure in racing long after retirement, actively contributing to the sport in various capacities.
Bobby Unser
With an aggressive competing style and a deep understanding of mechanical details, Bobby Unser achieved three decades of triumphs. Winning the Indy 500 in 1968, 1975, and 1981, Bobby Unser established himself as one of the most successful drivers in the event’s past. These feats vividly displayed his adaptability and competitive spirit, marking him as a standout figure in racing history.
Dario Franchitti
Franchitti’s charm and approachability made him a fan favorite and a respected person in the motorsports community. Securing Indy 500 victories in 2007, 2010, and 2012, Dario Franchitti became one of the most notable drivers of his era. Tactical prowess and ability to perform under pressure were evident in his multiple successes.
Tommy Milton
The winner wasn’t just an early Indy 500 champion (victories in 1921 and 1923), he was a pioneer who defied limitations. Remarkably, Milton achieved this success as the first blind driver to compete in and win the race. He had unwavering determination and exceptional skill and overcame significant personal challenges, setting a high bar for racers to come.
Gordon Johncock
Memorable victories at the Indy 500 in 1973 and 1982 define Gordon Johncock’s career. The 1982 triumph is one of the closest finishes in the race’s annals and pronounced his nerve and skill.
Bill Vukovich
Nicknamed “The Mad Russian” for his aggressive driving style, the racer carved his name into Indianapolis 500 history. Victories in 1953 and 1954 showed his talent, and he was leading the race in 1955 when a tragic crash cut his life short. Despite his limited time behind the wheel, Vukovich’s performances remain etched in motorsport records as some of the most commanding ever seen.
Emerson Fittipaldi
After conquering Formula One twice, he seamlessly adapted his skills to IndyCar, proving his mastery on both sides of the racing world. The pinnacle of this achievement was his double victory in 1989 and 1993. Adding international prestige to the Indy 500, Emerson Fittipaldi’s fame enhanced the race’s global appeal during his years of competition.
Juan Pablo Montoya
This “renaissance man” of motorsports impressed everyone with his versatility, conquering both IndyCar and Formula One. His exceptional skill was evident from the very beginning, with a stunning rookie win at the Indy 500 in 2000. He later returned to claim victory again in 2015. Montoya’s aggressive driving style became his trademark, but it was his adaptability that truly set him apart.
