Indianapolis 500
May 25, Sunday
Race history
The first Indianapolis 500 race (or Indy 500) took place on May 30, 1911. Since then, it has been held almost every year (exceptions were only during world wars and the COVID-19 pandemic).
The name "500" refers to the race distance — 500 miles (about 805 km), which equals 200 laps on a 2.5-mile oval track.
Race features
* The race is part of the IndyCar Series, the premier American open-wheel racing championship.
* The cars are special single-seaters that reach speeds over 370 km/h.
* The race lasts around 3 hours and requires endurance, precision, and strategy from the drivers.
* The winner is traditionally handed a bottle of milk — a unique ritual that has become a symbol of the Indy 500.
How is the celebration held?
Indianapolis 500 is not just a race, but an entire week of festivities:
* A parade in downtown Indianapolis featuring drivers, marching bands, and themed floats
* Concerts, fireworks, and car exhibitions
* Open practice sessions, qualifying runs, and "Carb Day" — the final tuning day
* Thousands of spectators fill the grandstands of the speedway (which holds over 250,000 people)
Significance for the USA and motorsport
The Indianapolis 500 is a cultural event of national importance in the USA and a true icon of global motorsport. It symbolizes technological progress, excitement, passion for speed, and teamwork.