INDIANAPOLIS, May 25. One of motorsport's most prestigious races, the Indianapolis 500, produced the most dramatic finish in its history. Sweden's Felix Rosenqvist realized the biggest dream of his career by winning the 110th running of the race. On the final lap he passed David Malukas by just two-tenths of a second—the closest finish the Indy 500 has ever seen. As Rosenqvist crossed the checkered flag in front of a packed Indianapolis Motor Speedway holding more than 300,000 spectators, the whole arena erupted in a roar of excitement.
Drama on the final lap
A late caution in the closing stages bunched the entire field back together, turning the final lap into a flat-out shootout. The battle for the lead between Rosenqvist and Malukas was breathtaking. Rosenqvist timed his move to perfection and was first to the checkered flag. It was the 70th lead change of the race—an all-time record that surpassed the previous mark of 68 set in 2013. So many lead changes proved that no driver could build a decisive advantage all race, with supremacy swinging back and forth time and again.
A landmark win for Meyer Shank Racing
The victory was historic for Rosenqvist's team, Meyer Shank Racing. The outfit has steadily improved in recent years, and by winning a race as prestigious as the Indy 500 it has cemented its place at the top of American open-wheel racing. Pit strategy, fuel management and timely tyre calls all played a decisive role. In a race like the Indy 500, where every second and every pit stop matters, the coordination of a team's engineers and pit crew is often as important as the driver's talent. The win is being seen as a big triumph for a smaller team.
Palou's pole position
In qualifying, Spain's Alex Palou had claimed pole at a speed of 232.248 mph and looked quick for much of the race. But the unpredictable nature of the Indy 500—where cautions, pit windows and slipstreams can flip the picture in an instant—ultimately swung in Rosenqvist's favor. For Palou, one of IndyCar's most successful current drivers, it was another opportunity that slipped away, and an Indy 500 win remains the biggest unfulfilled ambition of his career.
Rosenqvist's journey
Felix Rosenqvist's road to the top was not easy. After making his name in European junior formula racing, he moved to IndyCar and gradually established himself as a fast and reliable driver. His fearless oval driving and willingness to take a risk on the final lap made him a winner at the "Brickyard"—an achievement regarded as the pinnacle of any racer's career. After years of struggle, some disappointing seasons and team changes, this win is the reward for Rosenqvist's patience and perseverance. As he carried out the traditional drinking of the milk in Victory Lane, tears of joy were clearly visible in his eyes.