#United States #BorgWarner #Auburn Hills #Josef Newgarden #Roger Penske

BorgWarner's Tribute to Racing Legends

In a remarkable celebration of motorsport achievement, BorgWarner presented Josef Newgarden with his second Championship Driver's Trophy™ and honored Roger Penske with the Championship Team Owner's Trophy. The ceremony took place at the iconic Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Auburn Hills, Michigan. This event commemorated Newgarden's back-to-back victories at the Indianapolis 500, securing his place in racing history.

Newgarden’s latest trophy is a miniature of the prestigious Borg-Warner Trophy, affectionately known as the 'Baby Borg.' This award, which stands at 20 inches tall, showcases a sterling silver likeness of the driver alongside details such as his name, team name, and average speed during the race. This recognition highlights not only Newgarden’s skill as a driver but also underscores the significance of teamwork and dedication in achieving such heights.

Both Newgarden and Penske have carved their names into the annals of racing, with the latter celebrating his 20th Indy 500 victory, a testament to his legacy as the most successful team owner in the event's history. Penske's journey in the Indy 500 spans six decades, beginning in 1972, and includes a history of notable drivers catching the checkered flag under his stewardship.

Joseph Fadool, Chief Operating Officer of BorgWarner, expressed the excitement tied to this tradition, stating, "Presenting the Baby Borg trophies is an exciting tradition we look forward to every year, and it being back-to-back wins for Josef and the 20th win for Roger makes it even more special." He emphasized how the personalized trophies serve as cherished keepsakes that encapsulate the hard work and commitment involved in reaching such elite levels in the sport.

The 2024 Indianapolis 500 was a thrilling showcase of racing excellence, culminating in Newgarden's victory that placed him among a select group of drivers who have won consecutive races. This achievement links him with legends such as Wilbur Shaw, Mauri Rose, and Al Unser, showcasing the elite status that Newgarden is now part of.

Reflecting on his victory, Newgarden expressed his eagerness to return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the next race. With a determined mindset, he stated, "I can't wait to go back to Indy this year. I believe that we can win three in a row and I'm not worried about jinxing it because I know we can get the job done."

For Penske, the focus on human capital is central to his team’s success, as he noted, "At Team Penske, our greatest asset is our human capital; the knowledge and experience of our team, along with the continuity and commitment with our partners creates our competitive advantage." His words highlight the collaborative spirit and dedication that have become synonymous with Team Penske’s identity.

As Newgarden aims for a remarkable third consecutive win in the upcoming 2025 Indy 500, the eyes of the racing world will undoubtedly be focused on this dynamic driver and his legendary team. The stakes remain high, and Newgarden’s ambition to redefine records in the Indy 500 could inspire a new generation of racers.

In closing, BorgWarner continues to play a pivotal role in celebrating racing achievements, emphasizing a commitment to the sport and a respect for the champions who embody its competitive spirit. Their contribution to this vibrant culture of racing bridges past legends with present day victories, ensuring that the legacy of motorsports continues to inspire for generations to come.