The 109th Indianapolis 500 is set to take place at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, bringing together 33 of the best drivers in the world for 200 laps around the 2.5-mile oval. Known as the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” this event is one of the most prestigious motorsport competitions, with drivers vying for a spot in history and the chance to drink the traditional bottle of milk in Victory Lane.
Race Overview
- Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
- Time: 12:45 PM ET
- Location: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Speedway, IN
- Broadcast: FOX
- Race Length: 200 laps (500 miles)
Key Storylines
1. Robert Shwartzman’s Historic Pole Position
Rookie Robert Shwartzman stunned the field by securing pole position with a four-lap average of 232.790 MPH. The former Ferrari F1 reserve driver is the first rookie to start on the pole since Teo Fabi in 1983 and will lead the field into Turn 1.
2. Pato O’Ward’s Redemption Quest
O’Ward has come agonizingly close to winning the Indy 500, finishing second in 2024. Starting third, he is considered one of the favorites to finally claim victory and earn his place on the Borg-Warner Trophy.
3. Team Penske’s Controversy & Setback
A major post-qualifying scandal saw Josef Newgarden and Will Power penalized for illegal modifications, forcing them to start 32nd and 33rd. This setback could make their race a monumental challenge.
4. Kyle Larson’s Double Duty Attempt
Larson will attempt the Memorial Day Double, competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. His ability to transition between IndyCar and NASCAR will be a fascinating storyline.
5. Former Champions in the Mix
Several past winners are in contention, including Takuma Sato (starting 2nd), Scott Dixon (4th), and Marcus Ericsson (9th). Their experience could prove invaluable in the closing laps.
Starting Grid – Front Rows
| Position | Driver | Team | Speed (MPH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Robert Shwartzman (R) | Prema Racing | 232.790 |
| 2nd | Takuma Sato | Rahal Letterman Lanigan | 232.478 |
| 3rd | Pato O’Ward | Arrow McLaren | 232.098 |
| 4th | Scott Dixon | Chip Ganassi Racing | 231.765 |
| 5th | Alex Palou | Chip Ganassi Racing | 231.543 |
| 6th | David Malukas | Dale Coyne Racing | 231.321 |
Race Predictions & Contenders
- Favorites: Pato O’Ward, Scott Dixon, Alex Palou
- Dark Horses: Robert Shwartzman, Takuma Sato, Marcus Ericsson
- Strategy Focus: Tire management, fuel mileage, and late-race restarts will be crucial.
DRIVER ODDS
Oscar Piastri + 150
Lando Norris + 150
Max Verstappen + 400
George Russell + 1600
Lewis Hamilton + 2500
Charles Leclerc + 2500
Andrea Kimi Antonelli + 3500
Carlos Sainz + 15000
Alexander Albon + 15000
Yuki Tsunoda + 30000
Pierre Gasly + 40000
Isack Hadjar + 40000
Oliver Bearman + 50000
Liam Lawson + 50000
Fernando Alonso + 50000
Esteban Ocon + 50000
Franco Colapinto + 50000
Nico Hulkenberg + 60000
Lance Stroll + 60000
Gabriel Bortoleto + 60000
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 23, 2025
