Top five Formula 1 drivers to win Indy 500

Some of Formula 1's biggest names have tried their hands at cracking the Indy500's unique demands.

The Indianapolis 500, also known as the Indy 500, is an open-wheel race held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana. While primarily an American racing event under the umbrella of the IndyCar Series, it has seen participation from drivers around the world, including those who have competed in Formula 1.

The inaugural Indianapolis 500 was held in 1911, making it one of the oldest motorsport events still in existence. The race consists of 200 laps around the 2.5-mile (4.0-kilometer) oval-shaped track, totaling a distance of 500 miles (805 kilometres). Due to its long-standing history and significance, the Indy 500 is often referred to as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Long-kept traditions

The Indianapolis 500 is known for its unique traditions and pageantry. One of the most iconic traditions is the "Gentlemen, start your engines!" command, given by a selected honorary guest, which signals the beginning of the race. Another popular tradition is the winner of the race drinking milk in Victory Lane, a tradition that dates back to 1936.

It attracts a massive crowd, with hundreds of thousands of spectators filling the grandstands and infield to witness the race. It also draws global attention, as it is broadcasted internationally and showcases the best drivers from various racing disciplines, including IndyCar, Formula 1, and other racing series.

Winning the Indianapolis 500 is a significant achievement for any driver as the event holds immense prestige and is considered one of the three most prestigious races in the world, alongside the Monaco Grand Prix in Formula 1 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in endurance racing.

Here are the top five Formula 1 drivers who have won the Indianapolis 500

5. Dario Franchitti

Franchitti, a Scottish driver, competed in Formula 1 briefly before finding success in the IndyCar Series. He won the Indianapolis 500 three times, in 2007, 2010, and 2012. Franchitti's wins at the Indy 500 further solidified his status as one of the top drivers in American open-wheel racing.

4. Juan Pablo Montoya

Montoya, a Colombian driver, had successful stints in both Formula 1 and IndyCar. He competed in Formula 1 for Williams and McLaren before transitioning to the American open-wheel series. Montoya won the Indianapolis 500 in 2000 in his first attempt, and then again in 2015. His victories showcased his versatility and talent across different racing disciplines.

3. Jacques Villeneuve

Villeneuve, a Canadian driver, won the Formula 1 World Championship in 1997. He later joined the IndyCar Series and won the Indianapolis 500 in 1995, only his second attempt at the race. Villeneuve became the first rookie driver to win the Indy 500 since Graham Hill in 1966.

2. Emerson Fittipaldi

Fittipaldi, a Brazilian driver, won the Formula 1 World Championship in 1972 before transitioning to the IndyCar Series. In 1989, he secured his first victory at the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first former Formula 1 champion to win the race.

1 Graham Hill

Graham Hill is the only driver in history to achieve the Triple Crown of Motorsport, which includes winning the Monaco Grand Prix (F1), the Indianapolis 500 (IndyCar), and the 24 Hours of Le Mans (endurance racing). He won the Indy 500 in 1966, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest all-around drivers.

These five drivers have left an indelible mark on both Formula 1 and the Indianapolis 500, demonstrating their skill, adaptability, and ability to succeed in different racing disciplines. The most recent driver added to this list is Marcus Ericsson, who won the title in 2022  making his mark along with their victories at the Indy 500, which has added to the lore and history of the race, further cementing their status as some of the greatest drivers in motorsport.